Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

San Bernardino County, CA Single-Use Items: Plastic Bag Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California Public Resources Code 42283 →

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Key Facts

State law: SB 270 of 2014
Minimum charge: Ten cents per bag
Exempt customers: WIC and CalFresh
Inside-store bags: Still allowed

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

California SB 270 bans most single-use plastic carryout bags at grocery and retail stores statewide; San Bernardino County retailers must charge at least ten cents for recycled paper or thicker reusable bags.

Full Breakdown

Under California Public Resources Code 42283, large grocers, pharmacies, and convenience stores cannot give out thin single-use plastic carryout bags at checkout. Stores must offer recycled-content paper bags, reusable bags, or compostable bags for a minimum ten-cent charge that the store keeps for compliance costs. The rule applies countywide in San Bernardino, including Inland Empire chains and high desert markets. WIC and CalFresh customers are exempt from the bag charge. Produce bags, meat bags, and bulk food bags remain allowed inside the store.

Violations & Fines

Retailers giving away banned plastic bags or not charging the minimum fee face civil penalties up to 5000 dollars and warning letters from the California Attorney General.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a small bodega still use plastic bags?

Generally no if they sell groceries or are a pharmacy. Restaurants and very small specialty retail are exempt. Check the California Department of Resources Recycling rules for current thresholds.

Why am I charged for paper bags?

State law requires the ten-cent minimum to encourage reusable bags. Stores keep the fee to offset compliance and recycled-content paper costs. The fee is not a county or city tax.

How does San Bernardino County compare?

See how San Bernardino County's plastic bag rules rules stack up against other locations.

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San Bernardino County, CA Single-Use Items: Plastic Bag Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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