Plastic Bag Ordinance

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Washington's single-use plastic bag ban

Since October 1, 2021, Kent follows Washington State's Plastic Bag Ban. This ban reduces pollution by prohibiting single-use plastic carryout bags. It also charges a fee for acceptable bags in business establishments. 

The Legislature passed a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags during its 2020 session. This is to reduce plastic pollution, litter, and waste.

Details of the Bag Ban

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  • No single-use plastic carryout bags are allowed
  • There's an 8 cent charge on large paper carryout bags. The business must retain charges. The paper bags must be made with 40 percent recycled content.
  • There's an 8 cent charge on thick reusable plastic carryout bags. The business must retain charges. The thick plastic carryout bags must be made with 20 percent recycled content with at least 2.25 millimeter thickness. 
  • Compostable carryout bags are charge-optional. The compostable carryout bags are allowed but not recommended. The green or brown tinted film bags must be compostable.

Full details of the new Plastic Bag Ban can be viewed by visiting the Department of Ecology's website.

Retailers & restaurants

The Plastic Bag Ban applies to

  • All retail, grocery, and convenience stores
  • Any restaurant or establishment offering takeout or delivery food or goods
  • Temporary stores or vendors
  • Any event where food or goods are sold or distributed

To ensure your business is able to reach all of its patrons download an accessible toolkit in one of 17 languages.  

Please visit the Department of Ecology's website for a full list of Frequently Asked Questions for retailers and restaurants.

Shoppers

Visit the Department of Ecology's website for a full list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Tips for Remembering Reusable Bags

At Home

  • Make "Bring Bags" the first item on all your grocery lists.
  • Keep reusable bags in your backpack, gym bag or purse.
  • Hang reusable bags on the back of your main entry door.
  • Set a regular "Bring Bags" reminder on your phone for the days and times you usually buy groceries.

In the Car

  • Store reusable bags in the front seat where you can see them easily.
  • Post a "Bring Shopping Bags" sticky note on your dashboard.

View full details of the new Plastic Bag Ban.