BELLINGHAM - Retailers should expect to hear from the city as it prepares for the plastic bag ban.

The ban goes into effect Wednesday, Aug. 1. It encourages the use of reusable bags while banning the thin single-use plastic carry-out bags. Paper carry-out bags can be provided by stores, but at a cost of five cents per bag.

City spokeswoman Janice Keller said letters are being sent out in the coming days to retailers impacted by the ban, explaining the new rules. Details also can be found online at cob.org/plasticbags.

Seattle's plastic bag ban takes effect on Sunday, July 1.

Reach DAVE GALLAGHER atdave.gallagher@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2269.