Whitpain Township businesses must post signage about fees for paper bags

In a few short months, single-use plastic bags will no longer be available in Whitpain Township. 

The Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance that limits the use of plastics, including single-use plastic bags and expanded polystyrene, at retail stores within the township, in October 2024. 

Now, according to the township, local businesses will be required to post signage of the upcoming changes on all points of sale starting on April 30. The changes go into effect on Nov. 1, 2025.

Plastic utensils will be available by request only.

The ordinance specifically states: 

• Paper bags must be made available at point of sale for a minimum fee of $0.15 per bag. 
• Reusable bags can be made available at point of sale for a minimum fee of $0.15 per bag. 
• Businesses retain the $0.15 fee. 
• Expanded Polystyrene (StyrofoamTM) food service containers, including but not limited to food containers, plates, cups, trays and clamshells, will no longer be offered. 
• Plastic utensils, including but limited to, forks, spoons knives, chopsticks, beverage spill plugs, toothpicks, novelty cocktail accessories will be offered by request only. ◦ 
• Exemptions for certain types of bags (dry cleaning bags, bulk food item bags, bags for raw meat/fish, etc.).
  
  

To avoid paying a 15 cent fee, residents can simply bring their own reusable bags to use at checkout or pickup. 

Members of the EAC and Township staff are actively sourcing reusable Whitpain Township themed bags that can be given away at community events, like the Community Festival, to help residents with the transition.