Beginning January 1, 2026, Montgomery County will officially prohibit the use of most plastic bags, marking a significant shift for residents and retailers. The county’s new “bring your own bag” requirement aims to reduce dependence on single-use plastics by banning them at checkout counters, though several exceptions will still allow certain types of plastic bags to remain in circulation.
Local shoppers who rely on plastic bags for household uses, including lining trash cans or carrying everyday items, may want to start gathering reusable options such as canvas totes and fabric bags before the law takes effect. Under the new policy, retailers will no longer be permitted to provide free plastic bags at checkout. Instead, stores may only offer them for a fee of ten cents per bag. This fee will be split evenly: five cents will go to the county, and the other five cents will stay with the retailer.
The legislation does include exemptions to ensure essential purchases and health-related needs are not disrupted. Plastic bags will continue to be allowed for prescription medications at pharmacies, as well as for fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, and dry-cleaning garments. In addition, the ten-cent charge will not apply to customers using SNAP, WIC, or other state-supported food assistance programs at grocery stores. Restaurant takeout and delivery orders are also excluded from the paper bag fee.
County officials explain that the initiative is designed to reduce environmental waste, protect local waterways, and encourage long-term behavioral changes among shoppers. To make sure residents—particularly low-income households—are prepared for the transition, the county has partnered with nonprofit organizations, local service agencies, libraries, community programs, and food banks to distribute free reusable bags. These efforts are intended to ensure equitable access to sustainable alternatives.
Montgomery County joins several other Maryland jurisdictions that have already implemented plastic bag restrictions. Anne Arundel County, Baltimore, Frederick City, and Prince George’s County have all enacted bans, while the District of Columbia imposes a fee on plastic bags. Virginia, however, has not yet adopted a statewide ban.
Overall, county leaders view the upcoming changes as a necessary step toward reducing waste and promoting environmentally responsible habits among residents.
