North Myrtle Beach Plastic Bag Ban Explained

In an effort to combat pollution, North Myrtle Beach has become the latest coastal city to adopt the ban of single-use plastic bags, effective January 1, 2021. The move aims to contribute to the region's environmental health by minimizing elements that have proven harmful to the maritime community and ocean-dwelling inhabitants, and encouraging clean beaches along the Carolina coast.

 

According to the ordinance approved by the city council, local retailers have two years to complete the transition from plastic to more eco-friendly bags. The law bans all single-use plastic bags with handles (including shopping bags), with the exception of bags used for medications, meat, produce, newspapers, garbage, and dry cleaning. 

 

The city’s plan also includes focused efforts on litter control and cleanup, as well as the proper disposal of plastics through the promotion of community cleanups and environmental education.

 

Surfside Beach was the first municipality in Horry County to enact the plastic ban. Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, the Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, and Bluffton have done the same.