Plastic Bag Rules: Buffalo vs Clarence

Are plastic bags ever allowed?

Yes for narrow uses like bulk produce, raw meat, prescriptions, and restaurant prepared food takeout, but not for general grocery or retail checkout.

Who collects the paper bag fee?

Retailers collect the five-cent fee and remit it through their NY sales tax filings, with proceeds funding state environmental and county WIC programs.

Are plastic bags banned in New York?

Yes. Single-use plastic carryout bags are banned statewide under the Bag Waste Reduction Law (ECL §27-2801), effective March 1, 2020. Retailers can offer paper bags, often with a 5-cent fee.

Do I have to pay 5 cents for a paper bag?

Only in opt-in counties including NYC, Suffolk, Westchester, Tompkins, Albany, and Ulster. The fee funds the Environmental Protection Fund and reusable bag programs for low-income residents.

What bags are exempt from the ban?

Produce bags, bulk-item bags, raw meat/fish wrappers, prescription bags, newspaper bags, restaurant takeout bags, and garment bags. Reusable bags and paper carryout bags are also permitted.