Everything You Need to Know About California’s Bag Ban

California made history in 2014 as the first state to ban plastic bags in retail stores. This initiative put the state at the forefront of addressing the environmental impact of single-use plastic bags. The Sunshine State has since introduced other regulations to help manage plastic waste and encourage sustainable practices. 

Did California Ban Single-Use Plastic Bags?

California is enacting a new bag ban legislation that aims to eliminate the use of single-use plastic bags in retail stores starting in 2026. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• The legislation addresses the reusable plastics loophole that resulted from the first bag ban in 2014.
• California will prohibit grocery stores from providing single-use plastic bags at checkouts. 
• Grocery stores may only offer recycled paper bags or compostable bags. 
• The bill aims to reduce plastic pollution in the state’s beaches, parks, and even the ocean. 

Are Bags Illegal in California?

In California, single-use plastic bags are illegal at most retail stores. This law seeks to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. Instead of plastic bags, stores offer reusable or paper bags for a small fee. Using reusable bags can help keep our oceans and land clean, protect wildlife, and reduce our carbon footprint.

Everything You Need to Know About Plastic Bag Laws in California

Here is everything you need to know about California’s bag ban laws:

History of the California Bag Ban

California first passed Senate Bill (SN) 270 in 2014, a bill that banned the sale and distribution of single-use plastic bags in retail stores. However, the law still allowed stores to provide plastic bags as long as they were recyclable or reusable. The plastic industry exploited this condition by producing thicker and heavier plastics and presenting them as reusable.

The reality is that most consumers do not reuse or recycle these plastic bags. The tons of plastic grocery bag waste increased by 47% between when the bill’s passage in 2014 and 2022.   

Current Regulations

To address the loophole in SN 270, the Governor signed SN 1053 into law in 2024. This bill honors the original intent of the first one, which was to reduce plastic pollution.

After January 1, 2025, stores can only provide pre-checkout bags that are made from recycled paper or compostable materials that meet the set criteria. Come 2026, stores will only be allowed to offer recycled paper bags at the point of sale. Additionally, they must charge at least 10 cents for the bag fee.  

Stores Banned From Providing Single-Use Plastic Bags

For the purpose of California bag ban laws, stores that are banned from selling and distributing single-use plastic bags include:

• Grocery stores
• Food marts
• Retail stores with pharmacies
• Liquor stores 

Penalties

Stores will be monitored for compliance during routine inspections or investigations. If stores fail to comply with the plastic bag law, they will face fines or penalties for each violation. 

Greenprint Can Help

Greenprint can help stores remain compliant and address the issue of single-use plastic bags in California. We aim to transform the disposables industry by providing eco-friendly solutions. Explore our products and contact us to learn more.