Please refer to the Specifications and Sources for Reusable Bags for a listing of reusable bags in compliance with Ordinance 2016-02. The intent of this listing is to make it easier for stores to find reusable bags in compliance with the Reusable Bag Ordinance in Alameda County. The companies listed and the information presented is subject to change without notice.
The paper bags with handles your store offers for sale at checkout must meet the following requirements:
The Reusable Bag Ordinance requires affected stores to charge a customer a minimum of 10 cents per compliant bag. Stores are allowed to charge customers more than 10 cents per bag; that decision is made by the individual store operator.
All proceeds from the sale of recycled paper bags and reusable bags are retained by the retailer or eating establishment with no restrictions on their use.
No, the State Board of Equalization (BOE) indicates that the charge on bags would not be subject to State sales tax.
Yes, however the ordinance allows stores to decide how they handle customers participating in WIC and CalFresh/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) programs. The ordinance does not require a Store to impose a bag charge to those participating in SNAP and WIC, nor does it mandate a Store to give out free reusable or free recycled paper bags. Per SNAP and WIC program regulations (NOT the Authority’s Ordinance 2012-2 regulations), if a Store charges fees for bags, SNAP and WIC funds cannot be used to pay those fees.
No. The ordinance does not regulate use of single-use bags used to protect and transport produce, bulk food or meat from within a store to the checkout or cash register. Other bags not subject to charge include:
Retail: Yes. Customers may bring any type of bag (including single-use plastic bags) to a store for their purchases, and are encouraged to do so. Customers are only charged for bags provided by the store at check-out.
Eating Establishments: Yes, if the bags remain in the customer’s possession (and bags do not enter food preparation or utensils/food storage areas).
The differences between the two include the following:
Alameda County affected stores must comply with the requirements of the Alameda County Reusable Bag Ordinance, as the state law does not preempt or take precedence over city or county ordinances adopted prior to September 1, 2014.
