Paramus Plastic Bag & Styrofoam Ban: What To Know

PARAMUS, NJ – A borough-wide ban on plastic single-use plastic bags and Styrofoam food containers will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

In August, the borough council unanimously adopted an ordinance that not only bar businesses from distributing carryout plastic bags, as well as packaging food in polystyrene foam.

Officials spent more than a year discussing the measure, as well as gathering input from the borough's environmental commission and residents, according to Mayor Richard LaBarbiera.

As one of the largest shopping destinations in the country, the mayor has said he hopes Paramus can set an example for other municipalities once they see it working in the borough.

While there is legislation pending at the state level to ban plastic bags, there's no known time frame for when it could advance, which has prompted several communities to implement measures aimed at reducing and eliminating carryout bags.

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

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

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.

Earlier this month, 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. If approved by a state Assembly environment committee, the bill will go to the Senate and Assembly for full votes before the legislative session ends in January.

Wondering when Paramus' 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 an explainer put together by the Paramus Environmental Commission.

What kind of bags will be banned?

The ban affects all retailers, including grocery stores, restaurants, corner stores, pharmacies, clothing shops, hardware stores, food trucks, beer and liquor store. Basically, any retail store that provides bags to customers at the checkout counter.

What about the Polystyrene ban?

All retail food vendors are prohibited from providing polystyrene foam packaging to customers. Instead, they may use reusable plates, bowls, mugs and baskets, containers made from compostable material or containers made from recyclable plastic or aluminum.

There are a few exceptions, however - straws, cup lids and utensils, pre-packaged food and transparent covering (such as "Saran Wrap"). Also, hospitals and nursing homes are exempt from the ordinance.

When does the ban take effect?

Jan. 1, 2020.

Are there any bag ban exceptions?

Yes. Garbage, pet or yard waste bags are not included.

The ban also does not apply to loose produce or bulk item bags, bags to wrap meat, fish, flowers, potted plants, bakery goods, unwrapped prepared foods, prescriptions, newspapers and laundry/dry cleaning.

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.

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 up to $500.