Who is affected by this ordinance?

All sales outlets, stores, shops, restaurants, markets, supermarkets, clubs, pharmacies, or other places of business located within the City of Northampton that sell or convey merchandise directly to the ultimate consumer.

On January 21, 2021, the Northampton City Council approved a new plastic reduction ordinance, which bans styrofoam and non-recyclable plastic take-out containers and instead requires prepared food to be packaged in biodegradable, recyclable, reusable or compostable containers. See a full copy of the ordinance hereThis new ordinance replaces the single-use plastic bag ban (Section 272-18) since it incorporates the prohibition on single-use plastic bags. 

Show All Answers

1. What is a Plastic Reduction & Sustainability Ordinance?
2. Who is affected by this ordinance?
3. When does this ordinance take effect?
4. What types of bags and containers can I use?
5. Are there exemptions?
6. What happens if I do not comply?