Baltimore Ordinance 19-0401 bans single-use plastic carryout bags and requires retailers to charge 5 cents per paper bag. Maryland's statewide HB 314 reinforces local bans starting 2025.
Baltimore enacted Ordinance 19-0401 (Comprehensive Bag Reduction Act) banning single-use plastic carryout bags at retail point of sale, with full enforcement beginning October 2021 after a COVID delay. Retailers must charge a minimum 5-cent fee per paper or reusable bag provided, with 4 cents retained by the store and 1 cent remitted to the city. Exemptions cover bags for produce, bulk items, raw meat, prescription medication, and dry cleaning. Maryland HB 314 (effective 2025) creates a complementary statewide framework. Baltimore enforces through Department of Public Works inspectors, with warnings preceding civil fines.
Civil fines up to $1,000 per day for repeat violations; first violations typically receive a written warning before escalation.
Baltimore, MD
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Baltimore, MD
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See how Baltimore's plastic bag rules rules stack up against other locations.
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