Plastic Bag Rules: Mobile vs Prichard
How do plastic bag rules rules compare between Mobile, AL and Prichard, AL?
Mobile has fewer restrictions than Prichard.
Mobile, AL
Mobile County
Alabama Code section 22-22B-1, enacted in 2019, expressly preempts municipalities from banning or taxing plastic shopping bags or other auxiliary containers. Mobile cannot enact a bag ban or fee under state law.
View full Mobile rules →Prichard, AL
Mobile County
Alabama Code Section 11-89C-10, enacted in 2019, preempts cities and counties from regulating, banning, or taxing auxiliary containers including plastic bags.
View full Prichard rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mobile | Prichard |
|---|---|---|
| Preempting statute | AL 22-22B-1 | - |
| Year enacted | 2019 | - |
| Local bag ban | Prohibited | - |
| Local bag fee | Prohibited | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mobile FAQ
Why does Mobile not have a plastic bag ban?
Alabama Code section 22-22B-1 from 2019 preempts cities and counties from regulating auxiliary containers, including plastic bags. Mobile cannot adopt a ban or fee unless that statute is repealed.
Can Mobile encourage reusable bags?
Yes. The city may run education campaigns, partner with retailers on voluntary reusable-bag programs, and host recycling drop-offs, but it cannot mandate behavior or charge a fee.
Prichard FAQ
Can my Alabama city ban plastic bags?
No. Code Section 11-89C-10 preempts local ordinances regulating, banning, or taxing auxiliary containers like plastic bags.
Does the law cover paper bags too?
Yes, the preemption applies to all auxiliary containers including paper bags, cups, bottles, and similar items.
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