Plastic Bag Rules: Newark vs Wilmington
How do plastic bag rules rules compare between Newark, DE and Wilmington, DE?
Newark has fewer restrictions than Wilmington.
Newark, DE
New Castle County
Delaware bans single-use plastic carryout bags at large retailers under 7 Del.C. 6097, effective January 2021, with paper or reusable bag alternatives required statewide.
View full Newark rules →Wilmington, DE
New Castle County
Delaware Code Title 7 Section 6062 bans most single-use plastic carryout bags at large retailers statewide. Wilmington stores must offer paper, reusable, or compliant alternatives instead, with penalties for repeat violations.
View full Wilmington rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newark | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Statute | - | DE 7 §6062 |
| Effective | - | 2021, expanded 2022 |
| Enforcer | - | DNREC |
| Local override? | - | Preempted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newark FAQ
Wilmington FAQ
Can a Wilmington grocery still use thin plastic bags?
No. Stores meeting the size threshold must use paper, reusable, or other approved alternatives under DE 7 §6062.
Are produce bags banned too?
No. Bags used inside the store for loose produce, bulk items, meat, or dry cleaning remain allowed.
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