North Myrtle Beach set to eliminate the use of plastic bags starting July 1

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — North Myrtle Beach will soon become the 15th community in South Carolina to require businesses to stop using plastic bags in order to help reduce pollution, according to a release from the city.

The restriction on single-use plastic bags will be effective starting July 1 within the city of North Myrtle Beach.

The city defines a single-use plastic bag as a bag provided by a company or individuals to a customer, typically when they check out.

These bags are made from petroleum or a biologically based source, according to the city’s code of ordinances section.

The city said they acknowledge the change won’t be easy, but that the outcome will be worth it.

ALSO READ: Small plane, 1 aboard, crashes at North Myrtle Beach airport

Studies show 13 million tons of plastic makes its way into our oceans and waterways each year.

The city provided a few options for families and businesses who are used to using the plastic bags. They say options include using paper bags, reusable bags, or no bags at all. They said businesses could charge a fee for paper or reusable bags to make up for the cost, if needed.

Several businesses in North Myrtle Beach are using paper bags or already offer reusable bags for customers to purchase. A few businesses require their customers to bring their own bags, and some are beginning to add a fee for bags or carryout.

To read more about the ordinance, click here.

(WATCH BELOW: Alligator removed from North Myrtle Beach)