California Statewide Rule
California Statewide Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban
Key Facts
- Statute
- Pub Res 42280-42288
- Enacting Law
- SB 270 (2014)
- Voter Ratification
- Prop 67 (2016)
- Paper Bag Charge
- 10 cents minimum
Summary
California prohibits grocery stores and large retailers from providing single-use plastic carryout bags under Public Resources Code 42280-42288, enacted by SB 270 (2014) and ratified as Proposition 67 in 2016. Recycled paper or reusable bags require a 10-cent minimum charge.
(a) Except as provided in subdivisions (b) and (c), a store shall not provide, distribute, or sell a carryout bag at the point of sale. (b) (1) A store may make available for purchase at the point of sale a recycled paper bag but shall not sell a recycled paper bag for less than ten cents ($0.10) in order to ensure that the cost of providing a recycled paper bag is not subsidized by a consumer who does not require that bag.
Full Breakdown
Public Resources Code 42280-42288 prohibits covered stores including supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, and large retailers from distributing single-use plastic carryout bags at checkout. Stores must offer reusable bags or recycled paper bags for at least 10 cents. SB 270 was enacted in 2014 and ratified by voters as Proposition 67 with 53 percent in 2016. SB 1053 (2024) further restricts thicker reusable plastic bags effective 2026. The law applies statewide to covered retailers; local governments may impose stricter rules but cannot weaken the prohibition.
Violations & Penalties
Violations carry civil penalties of $1,000 per day for the first violation, $2,000 per day for second, and $5,000 per day thereafter under Public Resources Code 42283.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are single-use plastic bags banned in California?
Why do California stores charge for paper bags?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.