Important Notice Regarding the Ulster County Bring Your Own Bag Act

County Executive Pat Ryan wants to make sure you are prepared when the Ulster County Bring Your Own Bag Act (BYOBag Act) goes into effect on July 15, 2019. Please see the important message below from Amanda LaValle, Director of the Ulster County Department of the Environment:

On July 15th, the Ulster County Bring Your Own Bag Act (BYOBag Act) will go into effect. This Act regulates the distribution of single use plastic bags at most retail establishments. Most types of carry-out plastic bags will be prohibited and retailers will be required to collect a fee on any recyclable paper bags provided.
 
Plastic bags, although useful and convenient, all too often contribute to litter, impact our environment, and have the potential to affect human health. Reducing our reliance on plastic bags and encouraging the use of reusable bags is an important way to reduce plastic pollution. The BYOBag Act is one way Ulster County is continuing our tradition as environmental leaders by doing our part to address this serious and growing problem. 

At the Ulster County BYOBag Act website you will find resources for retailers, consumers, as well as answers to many Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any questions or concerns about the implementation of this Act, we encourage you to contact us at BYOBagAct@co.ulster.ny.us.
 
On July 15th, let’s continue to demonstrate Ulster County’s environmental leadership to New York State and beyond in our roll-out of the Ulster County BYOBag Act.