Saddle Brook Plastic Bag Ban: What To Know

SADDLE BROOK, NJ – Saddle Brook's ban on plastic single-use plastic bags in stores and restaurants will soon go into effect.

Township officials passed an ordinance earlier this year in hopes it could help reduce the number of disposable plastic carryout bags that are being used, discarded and littered. They also seek to promote the use of reusable carryout bags and recyclable paper bags by businesses in Saddle Brook.

Nearly 70 towns or counties in the Garden State, including Glen Rock, Ridgewood and Paramus, have adopted bans over the past year. Jersey City, Hoboken and Parsippany have also prohibited them.

Environmental advocates say plastic bags are one the biggest sources of litter and can harm wildlife, as well as water quality. However, opponents to such measures believe the regulation could drive up costs for local businesses, which would eventually trickle down to consumers.

Last week, a state Senate committee voted to advance a bill that would ban single-use plastic and paper bags, as well as Styrofoam takeout containers, in New Jersey. The legislation also proposes a ban on paper bags. In enacted it would supersede any existing local regulations adopted in New Jersey.

It is anticipated to go before the state Assembly's environment committee this week. If approved, it would head to the Senate and Assembly for full votes before the legislative session ends in January.

Read More: NJ's Busiest Shopping Town Just Banned Plastic Bags

Wondering when Saddle Brook’s bag ban takes effect? Are there any exceptions? Will you have to pay a fee on paper bags?

Here's how it will all work, according to the adopted ordinance.

What kind of bags will be banned?

Saddle Brook’s ban will apply to all single-use plastic bags provided by stores to carry out goods. All retail and food service establishments are prohibited from providing any customers with single-use plastic carryout bags.

It does not apply to reusable bags with handles that are made of cloth or another durable material

When does the ban take effect?

Jan. 1, 2020.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. All bags used inside of stores are allowed, such as those used for baked goods, prescription drugs, loose produce, potted plants, cut flowers, garbage and yard waste.

The ban also does not apply to newspaper bags, door-hanger bags, laundry and/or dry-cleaning bags, or bags sold in packages containing multiple bags intended for use as food storage bags, garbage bags, yard waste bags, or pet waste bags.

Will stores provide reusable bags and recyclable paper bags?

Stores may provide paper bags, however it is up to each individual business whether or not to charge for paper bags.

What about bags for cleaning up after your dog?

The town ordinance only affects bags provided at check out. Stores may continue to sell packages of bags such as garbage bags, food storage bags, yard waste bags or pet waste bags without adding any additional fee beyond their usual sale price.

Can I bring my own single-use plastic bags to the store?

If you have a drawer full of them at home, feel free. The ordinance only prohibits businesses from providing single-use plastic bags. According to the town, retail establishments are being asked to encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags. Businesses can, at their discretion, provide a credit to customers that choose to bring their own bags.

Is there a penalty for stores and food establishments that don't comply?

Businesses in violation of the ordinance will receive a written warning from the town. Subsequent violations carry financial fines of $50, $100, and $200. A fourth offense will result in a $1,000 fine.