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City of Coral Gables
Prohibition on
Green Ini t i a t i v e
S e a l o f Sustainability
PLASTIC BAGS
FOR RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS
Stores & Restaurants in Coral Gables Are Prohibited from Using Plastic Bags
NEW REGULATION!
On May 9, 2017, the City of Coral Gables became the first municipality in Florida to prohibit single-use
carry out plastic bags. This new law takes effect immediately, but citations will not be issued, among
retail establishments operating in Coral Gables, until May 10, 2018. This time allows local businesses to
use existing inventory of plastic bags, transition to alternative products, and become better informed
about the new regulation.
Why this New Regulation?
The City of Coral Gables is a leader in sustainability efforts. The ultimate goal of this new ordinance is
to replace single-use carry out plastic bags with reusable, recyclable or compostable alternatives in
order to reduce litter and pollutants on streets, parks, public spaces and waterways.
How Does it Affect My Business?
This law applies to all retail establishments in Coral Gables, including supermarkets, grocery stores,
convenience stores, shops, service stations, restaurants and any other sales outlets where a customer
can buy goods, materials, or products. Beginning on May 10, 2018, failure to comply with the new
ordinance may result in the issuance of a citation with fines imposed per day (not per plastic bag).
• Warning issued to allow for time to correct violation.
• $50 fine for first-time violations.
• $100 fine for second violation.
• $500 fine for third violation.
• $1,000 for any subsequent violations within a 12-month period.
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Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes , this new ordinance exempts:
• Produce bags that protect food or merchandise
from being damaged or contaminated by other
food or merchandise when items are placed
together in a reusable bag or recyclable bag.
• Bags that hold prescription medications dispensed
from a pharmacy or veterinary office.
• Bags designed to be placed over articles of
clothing on a hanger, including dry cleaning bags.
• Door hanger bags.
• Newspaper bags.
• Garbage bags.
• Pet waste bags.
• Yard waste bags.
• Bags of any type that a customer previously
owned and brings to a store for his or her own use
in carrying away store goods.
What Can I Use Instead of
Plastic Bags?
To comply with this new law, businesses
have the option of using:
• Reusable bags designed for
long-term use.
• Recyclable paper bags that contain
and display a minimum average
of 40% post-consumer recycled
material.
• Compostable bags that conform and
display an ASTM D6400 standard.
What about Other Options?
If your business wants to propose another innovative and creative idea to replace single-use plastic
bags, please contact the City’s Sustainability Division. The City of Coral Gables will consider other
options as long as it is an environmentally sustainable alternative that eliminates single-use plastic
bags. Each proposal will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Who Do I Call for More Information?
For any questions, please contact the City of Coral Gables Sustainability Division
at 305-460-5008 or visit www.coralgables.com/plasticbags
ADA Notice: The City welcomes individuals with disabilities. To request a modification to a policy, practice or procedure or to request an auxiliary aide or service (such as a sign
language interpreter) in order to participate in a City program, activity or event, please contact the City’s ADA Coordinator Raquel Elejabarrieta or the Director of the sponsoring
department at least seven (7) days in advance where circumstances permit. ADA Coordinator Raquel Elejabarrieta may be reached by email:
ada@coralgables.com, or by telephone: 305-722-8686 (voice) or 305-442-1600 (TTY/TDD).
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