Press Release:

On March 25, 2026, the Jenkintown Borough Council, with the assistance of the Jenkintown Environmental Advisory Committee, passed Ordinance No. 2026-2, “Single Use Plastic Regulations.” This new law regulates single-use plastic bags, plastic straws, and stirrers at retail establishments within the Borough.

Effective July 23, 2026, retail establishments in Jenkintown will no longer be permitted to provide single-use plastic bags to customers. Customers are encouraged to bring their own bags. Retail establishments may provide a recycled paper bag or a reusable bag for a minimum fee of $0.10. Persons using SNAP, WIC, or TANF benefits are exempt from the fee, and the fee may be waived for online orders. All proceeds from bag fees are retained by the retail establishment.

Also effective July 23, 2026, retail establishments will only provide compostable straws and stirrers. Single-use plastic straws will still be available upon customer request.

Businesses are required to display signage informing customers of these changes beginning April 22, 2026 through at least September 23, 2026. An example of the required signage is available for download below.

The Jenkintown Environmental Advisory Committee has prepared an information Tool Kit to help businesses understand the law, including a summary of exemptions, frequently asked questions, and enforcement details. Non-compliance will first be addressed through a written notice of violation. Businesses that have recently purchased a supply of single-use plastic bags may apply for a hardship exemption of up to one year by contacting the Borough Manager.

Click here to read the Single-Use Plastic Regulations Tool Kit (PDF).

Click here to download the required business signage (PDF).

The borough’s letter is below:

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