The City of Lawrence, Kansas is excited to improve the long-term health of our natural environment by engaging the Lawrence community in a campaign designed to encourage people to use reusable bags. This site shares information about Ordinance No. 9996, which will significantly reduce the number of single-use disposable plastic bags in Lawrence while also providing resources that make choosing reusable bags convenient, educational, and fun.
Let’s get ready for reusables, Lawrence! We’ve tote-ally got this.
The new ordinance goes into effect on March 1, 2024. Here's a rundown of what that means for you:
What is Prohibited?
Establishments in Lawrence will be prohibited from providing single-use disposable plastic bags to customers at the point of sale.
What is Still Allowed?
Reusable Bags
The City strongly encourages consumers to use durable reusable bags instead of single-use disposable bags.
Some Reusable Plastic Bags
Businesses may provide reusable plastic bags that are at least 4 mils thick, contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled content, and are labeled with the word "reusable", the recycled content percentage, and the thickness.
Some Paper Bags
Single-use disposable paper bags may be provided if the paper bags contain at least 40% post-consumer recycled content.
What is Exempt?
There are a number of exemptions including newspaper bags and produce bags. Some organizations such as schools, churches and farmer's markets are also exempt.
Oh the Places You'll Tote
See how locals are doing their part and incorporating reusable bags into their own routines.
More Information
Read more about Ordinance 9996 on the links below.