FAQ Topic: Rules & Regulations

No, this legislation does not apply to any polystyrene packing or shipping materials.

No. Many businesses are already switching away from disposable polystyrene products and opting for biodegradable containers made from material such as paper, cardboard, or plant-based plastics. Regular plastic containers are also acceptable under this legislation

The purpose of this law is to improve the environment in the Village of Rye Brook by discouraging the use of polystyrene products which are cost-prohibitive to recycle and are not biodegradable. Polystyrene is a petroleum-based plastic that takes thousands of years to break down, eventually releasing toxins into the environment. This legislation continues Rye … Continued

Yes, businesses that use plastic straws can still provide you with one should you need it. Be sure to ask your server or the person behind the counter and they will provide you with a straw.

Any single-use carryout bag that is less than 2.25 mils (thousandths of an inch) thick and is made predominantly of plastic derived from petroleum or from bio-based sources, such as corn or other plant sources, that is provided by a retail establishment or a Village facility to a customer at the point of sale.

The 10-cent fee will encourage residents to bring their own bags. Studies show that bag fees reduce single-use bag usage. Prior to being given a paper bag, a customer will be asked whether he/she wants a bag and be informed that it will cost 10 cents. The bag fees must be included on the customer’s … Continued

The purpose of this law is to improve the environment in the Village of Rye Brook by discouraging the use of single-use plastic straws which are not recyclable or biodegradable. These straws often end up polluting waterways, clogging sewers, and injuring or even killing marine life. This legislation continues Rye Brook’s goal to protect the … Continued

Here are some Ideas: Keep your bags in your car or purse Put something important in your bags (keyst, phone, etc) Go back to the car for your bags when you realize you forgot them

Assume that any food that you purchase at the store has bacteria and needs to be cleaned – especially if you put it in a shopping cart! Produce and deli bags are not banned and help protect against bacteria. However, we do recommend periodically cleaning your reusable bag. Canvas, recycled plastic, and nylon bags can … Continued

Reusable bags can be made from a variety of materials such as from fabric like canvas, woven synthetic fibers, or a thick plastic that is more durable than disposable plastic bags, allowing multiple uses. Also, many times recycled plastic is used in the reusable bags. Reusable bags, even when made out of plastic, significantly reduce … Continued