Regulating Plastic Shopping Bags and Polystyrene Food and Drink Containers

Lee has regulated plastic bags and polystyrene containers since 2017

Our bylaws regulate the use of thin-film plastic shopping and produce/bulk bags and polystyrene drink and food containers. The bylaws encompass a wide range of operations that might use these items - including businesses, non-profits, educational and religious institutions, as well as temporary/one-time activities. These entities are prohibited from using the regulated products. Many alternatives exist. One of the goals of the bylaws is to encourage the use of reusable items - reusable bags and water bottles, for example, rather than single-use items.  

The bylaws do not affect what residents and visitors can do in private - they can also purchase these items in Lee or bring them to Lee. We offer a wealth of resources for residents, visitors, and establishments. The bylaws minimize impacts on citizens when shopping or getting drinks or food outside the home. Shoppers may use whatever bags and containers they have, but no longer receive free thin-film plastic bags or food or drinks in polystyrene containers. COMPOSTABLE BAGS CANNOT BE RECYCLED WITH OTHER PLASTIC BAGS, BUT BPI CERTIFIED COMPOSTABLE BAGS MAY BE DROPPED OFF AT THE FOOD WASTE/COMPOSTING SHED AT MEADOW FARM.  

  • You can see the complete thin-film, plastic shopping bag bylaw here.
  • You can see the polystyrene drink and food container bylaw here.

Here are links to resources that might be helpful:

If you have any questions about the bylaws, please contact

  • Jim Wilusz, Executive Director of the Tri-Town Health Department -- (413)243-5540 or [email protected]
  • Peter Hofman, Chair of the Lee Greener Gateway Committee -- (603)767-4250 or [email protected]