Show All Answers

1. What is the purpose of the bylaw?

The purpose of this bylaw is to eliminate the usage of thin-film single-use plastic bags by all retail and grocery stores in the Town of Maynard. These bags may have a significant impact on the environment.

2. What is a thin-film single-use plastic bag?

A bag, typically with handles, with a thickness of 4 mils or less and are intended for single-use transport of purchase products.

3. When does the bylaw take effect?

The bylaw will apply to food establishments and retail and grocery stores July 26, 2022.

4. Are any plastic bags allowed?

Single-use plastic bags used to contain dry cleaning, newspapers, produce, meat, bulk foods, wet items and other similar merchandise, typically without handles, may be distributed, used or sold at any retail or grocery store.

5. Will businesses be fined for noncompliance?

Yes, any food establishments or retail or grocery store distributing plastic grocery bags in violation of this bylaw shall be subject to a non-criminal disposition fine as specified in Appendix A of the Regulations for Enforcement of Town Bylaws under M.L.G. Chapter 40, Section 21D and the Bylaw for Non-Criminal Disposition of Violations. The following penalties shall apply: 1st offense, warning; 2nd offense, $50; 3rd offense $100 and appearance in front of the Board of Health; 4th and each subsequent offense $200.

6. Are there any exceptions?

Yes, a 6-month exemption is available if compliance causes an undue hardship for your business. Submit a Hardship Application to the Board of Health, PRIOR TO July 26, 2022, explaining how compliance would have a negative impact on your business. Examples include financial burdens, excessive existing inventory, issues sourcing compliant products, etc.

Download the Hardship Application Form (PDF).

Additionally, the bylaw does not apply to non-commercial retail establishments.