South Lake Tahoe plastic bag ban expands

South Lake Tahoe’s ban on plastic single-use carryout bags at retail establishments went into effect today.

The ordinance took effect for grocery stores and food vendors on Jan. 15, 2014. For all other retail establishments the rule is effective Oct. 15.

The city said it is seeking voluntary compliance and has no intention of immediate enforcement.

According to the ordinance, the rules affect a “retail establishment that sells perishable or nonperishable goods, including, but not limited to, clothing, food, and personal items, directly to a customer. … A reusable carryout bag or a recycled paper bag may be provided to the customer.”