South Carolina prohibits local governments from regulating or banning auxiliary containers including plastic bags, foam containers, and similar single-use items.
Section 44-96-460 of the South Carolina Code, enacted by Act 207 of 2020, preempts political subdivisions from adopting or enforcing any ordinance regulating the use, disposition, sale, or imposition of fees on auxiliary containers. The term encompasses plastic, paper, and reusable bags, polystyrene cups and containers, bottles, and similar packaging. Several coastal municipalities, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, had enacted plastic bag bans before the law; the statewide preemption now blocks new local restrictions. The General Assembly cited the need for uniform commerce rules.
Conflicting local ordinances are void; affected businesses or the Attorney General may seek injunctive relief.
See how Summerville's plastic bag rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.