Plastic Bag Rules: Los Angeles vs Topanga
How do plastic bag rules rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Topanga, CA?
Los Angeles and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles banned single-use plastic carryout bags at large supermarkets effective January 1, 2014 and extended the ban citywide to all retailers on July 1, 2014. Retailers must charge at least 10 cents per recycled-content paper bag or reusable bag. SB 1053 (2026) phases out the thicker "reusable" plastic bag exemption.
View full Los Angeles rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County banned single-use plastic carryout bags in unincorporated areas via Ordinance 2010-0059, requiring a minimum 10-cent paper-bag charge. California SB-270 extended the ban statewide, and AB-1162 (2024) further restricts pre-checkout plastic bags countywide.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| County ordinance | - | Ord. 2010-0059, LACO 12.85 |
| Paper-bag fee | - | Minimum 10 cents |
| State law | - | PRC section 42281, SB-270 |
| WIC/CalFresh | - | Exempt from fee |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Are plastic bags banned at grocery stores in Los Angeles?
Yes. Single-use plastic carryout bags have been banned at all LA retailers since July 2014. As of January 2026, even the thicker "reusable" plastic bag is no longer permitted under California SB 1053.
How much is the paper bag fee?
At least 10 cents per paper bag (must contain 40% post-consumer recycled content). The retailer keeps the fee. SNAP/WIC customers are exempt from the charge.
Does the ban apply to restaurant takeout bags?
No. Bags used to carry prepared takeout food from restaurants are exempt, as are produce, meat, and bulk-bin bags inside the store.
Topanga FAQ
Can my deli still hand out thin plastic bags for sandwiches?
Yes. Bags used to wrap loose food items inside the store are exempt under LACO Title 12.85 and SB-270; only checkout carryout bags trigger the ban and the ten-cent fee.
Do I have to charge customers who bring their own bag?
No. The 10-cent charge under LACO Title 12.85 only applies when the store provides a paper or reusable bag at checkout. Customer-supplied bags are not charged.
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