Can I use the 20¢ to offset the cost of the paper bags I am providing?

No.  The fees collected must be used only for the pillowing purposes, per Section 19-204 of the Code:

  1. Provide educational information about the Waste Reduction Fee and reusable bags free of cost to customers;
  2. Provide required signage regarding the fee;
  3. Train staff in the implementation and administration of the fee;
  4. Improve or alter infrastructure to allow for the implementation, collection, and administration of the fee;
  5. Collect, account for, and report on use of the fee to the city;
  6. Develop and display informational signage to inform consumers about the fee; and
  7. Provide and encourage the use of reusable bags.

Show All Answers

1. How does the Opt-In Program work?
2. How much of the 20¢ fee does my business get to keep?
3. Can I use the 20¢ to offset the cost of the paper bags I am providing?
4. Are there any customers that are exempt from the 20¢ paper bag fee?
5. How does my business benefit?
6. Can I just stop providing plastic bags and start selling paper bags for 20¢ per bag?
7. Is this agreement voluntary?