Saratoga Springs, NY Single-Use Items: Plastic Bag Rules (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: NY DEC — Bag Waste Reduction Law →

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New York state rule: Saratoga Springs does not have a local ordinance for plastic bag rules. This topic is governed by New York state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

The New York Bag Waste Reduction Law (Environmental Conservation Law §27-2801, enacted 2019, enforced March 2020) bans most single-use plastic carryout bags statewide. Counties and cities may impose a 5-cent paper bag fee. Reusable bags and certain product bags are exempt.

Full Breakdown

New York Environmental Conservation Law §27-2801 et seq. — the Bag Waste Reduction Law — bans the distribution of plastic carryout bags by any person required to collect state sales tax. The law was signed in April 2019 and took effect March 1, 2020 after court-imposed delays. Counties and cities may opt in to a 5-cent paper carryout bag fee under ECL §27-2805, with 40% supporting the Environmental Protection Fund and 60% supporting reusable bag distribution to low-income households. New York City, Suffolk County, Westchester, Tompkins, Albany, and Ulster have adopted the fee. Exemptions cover bags used to package bulk items, produce, raw meat/fish, prescriptions, newspapers, restaurant takeout food, and garment bags. Compostable bags do not qualify as substitutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Saratoga Springs, NY Single-Use Items: Plastic Bag Rules (2026)

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