The Plastic Bag Ban

WHAT EXACTLY DOES THE CITY’S BAN ON DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAGS COVER?

The city’s ordinance, in effect since May, prohibits stores and restaurants from providing customers single-use, carry-out plastic bags. It applies to all retailers in Coral Gables, including supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, shops, service stations, restaurants and other outlets where customers can buy merchandise.

Exempted from the ban are: produce bags that protect food or merchandise from being damaged or contaminated by other items when placed together in a reusable or recyclable bag; bags that hold prescription medicines dispensed from a pharmacy or veterinary office; bags designed to be placed over articles of clothing on a hanger; door hanger bags; newspaper bags; garbage bags; pet waste bags; yard waste bags; bags a customer previously owned.

Violators face fines that start at $50 and escalate to $500. For more information, check www.coralgables.com/plasticbags.

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