The new bag ordinance in the City of Pittsburgh is causing confusion and frustration.
Over the weekend, the city implemented a long-planned plastic bag ban.
Those that don't have their own reusable bags will be charged 10 cents per paper bag at places like Giant Eagle and convenient stores.
Costumers are now finding out that includes paper bags at fast food and carry-out restaurants. A 10 fee is reportedly mandated by the city.
Jeff Cohen, owner of Smallman Street Deli in the Strip District says they can't pack the food properly using new bags.
“It doesn’t fit, you can’t put the to go containers in a bag we have not because it would be sideways,” said Cohen.
He adds there is another issue the new containers make the food too hot and it affects the quality of the food.
“It’s more complicated than people think,” added Cohen.
Food that is open, like a box of French fries, can be put in a plastic bag without a fee, but covered foods in bags will be charged 10 cents.
The city says the bag ban is to help the environment and reduce the amount of litter the bags cause throughout the city.
A first violation results in a warning with multiple costing a restaurant or store up to $250.