Saanich’s Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw is now in effect, time to BYO bag!

The District of Saanich is reminding the public and businesses that single-use plastic bags have now been phased out and the Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw is now in effect.

The purpose of the bylaw is to regulate the use of single-use checkout bags by residents and businesses in an effort to reduce litter and waste in our community and our landfill.

“Reducing the negative impacts that discarded plastic bags have on the environment and our municipal facilities and services is a small but significant step toward becoming more sustainable as a district and community,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “I look forward to seeing the creative solutions our residents adopt that don’t require a single-use bag.”

What this means for businesses

Businesses are no longer permitted to give out single-use plastic bags. A business may provide a checkout bag to a customer only if:

• the bag provided is a paper bag or a reusable bag; and
• the customer is charged a fee not less than:
  • 15 cents per paper bag; and
  • $1.00 per reusable bag.

What this means for customers

Customers will need to bring in their own reusable bags as of August 20, 2021. Alternately, they can purchase paper bags or reusable bags at their point of purchase.

Quick facts:

• Saanich residents use approximately 200 single-use plastic bags each every year. Reducing waste can lead to lower District operating costs and increased service levels that enhance the quality of life and experience for all Saanich residents and visitors.
• Residents can continue to reuse their existing plastic bags.
• Businesses will be still be permitted to provide paper bags at a charge.

Information and printable resources are available at saanich.ca/byobag