Ridgewood Plastic Bag Ban: What To Know

RIDGEWOOD, NJ – Ridgewood’s ban on plastic single-use plastic bags in stores and restaurants will soon go into effect.

The village council approved an ordinance in June, joining a growing movement across the country aimed at promoting sustainability and reducing litter.

In February, the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee petitioned the village to move forward with a ban and implement a fee for single-use paper bags. The volunteer group said it received support for the measure from the village's business community, as well as the chamber of commerce and Ridgewood Guild.

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

Ridgewood’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, if you bring your own reusable bags, then you do not have to pay the fee and shouldn't be an issue at the store.

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 borough. Subsequent violations carry financial fines of $50, $100, and $200. A fourth offense will result in a $1,000 fine.