South Carolina Plastic Bag Local Preemption Statewide Rule

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.