What if an establishment is not following the new rules? How should I report a violator?

Provide Information

You can help your community by first providing assistance and information to establishments about the new regulations and encouraging managers to visit our resources online at www.charleston-sc.gov/plastic.  The webpage is designed specifically to help facilitate a smooth transition with information on the new code requirements that we hope businesses will find helpful.  

Report Violators 

If you find establishments are not responsive to your outreach and warning efforts, please report potential violators ONLINE via the City’s Citizen Service Desk web portal at https://www.charleston-sc.gov/879/Citizen-Support-Center.  The web portal has an option to upload photographs if you choose to include any.

Show All Answers

1. What if an establishment is not following the new rules? How should I report a violator?
2. When did the ordinance go into effect?
3. Who needs to comply with the ordinance?
4. Do these regulations apply to vendors, food trucks, farmers markets, festivals, weddings, etc.?
5. What is the purpose of the Environmentally Acceptable Packaging/ Products ordinance?
6. Where can I find a copy of the full ordinance?
7. What products does the ordinance apply to?
8. Are there any exemptions or products not restricted to begin with?
9. What if I have questions or need additional information?
10. Who do I ask to find out if a particular product I use is recyclable and therefore compliant?
11. What are the types of products that are allowed for use under the ordinance?
12. What type of bag is considered reusable?
13. What is the most environmentally sensitive choice I can make as a business owner or consumer?
14. What should retailers do if they have large stocks of plastic bags that last beyond the January 1, 2020 effective date?
15. I think I have a hardship in complying with this ordinance. What should I do?
16. Is every type of plastic bag prohibited?
17. How do I know if a particular product I use is compostable and therefore compliant?
18. As a customer, can I bring my own single-use plastic carryout bags to the store?
19. Do I have to charge my customers for paper bags?
20. Is there a requirement for recycled content in paper bags?
21. How will this be enforced?
22. Is the City of Charleston coordinating with other local jurisdictions on this?