Status and scope today
Yes, single-use plastic carryout bags are effectively banned at the statewide level in California. The rules are not phrased as an outright ban for all contexts, but as a ban on free single-use plastic carryout bags at retail stores and a prohibition on certain thin plastic produce and merchandise bags. This summary explains what is banned, where exceptions exist, how enforcement works, and practical steps for businesses and consumers in 2026.
Key definitions
Understanding the rules starts with clear definitions for what the law regulates and what is permitted.
Single-use plastic carryout bags
Plastic bags given to customers at the point of sale to carry groceries or other purchases home, whether for free or sold, are treated as carryout bags. Paper and reusable bags may be sold, but subject to different rules and fees.
Prohibited items under statewide law
- Free single-use plastic carryout bags at retail checkout.
- Single-use plastic produce bags under a specified thickness threshold.
- Single-use plastic garment bags intended for retail distribution.
Statewide rules and requirements
California’s plastic bag rules are codified in Public Resources Code Section 60281.5 and related regulations, building on earlier bans that began in 2015. Retailers may not provide single-use plastic carryout bags for free. Consumers may purchase compliant reusable plastic or paper bags, and stores may charge at least the minimum amount permitted by law. The rules apply broadly to large and small retailers, with specific requirements for labeling, storage, and handling.
Local rules and variations
Some cities and counties adopted their own ordinances before the statewide rules took effect or impose additional requirements. Local governments may regulate thickness standards for plastic produce bags, bag fees for paper or reusable options, and store operations. Examples of cities with long-standing rules are summarized below.
| City or County | Plastic Carryout Ban or Fee (example) | When It Took Effect | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | Retailer bag restrictions / fees | Varies by jurisdiction | Countywide baseline with local variations |
| San Francisco | Early local bag rules and fees | 2007–2013 | Among the earliest U.S. local bag laws |
| Santa Monica | Local bag rules and fees | Adopted pre-2015 | Stricter local standards in place |
| Imperial County | Plastic bag restrictions | 2014 | Countywide rules predate statewide law |
Because rules vary, check your city or county environmental health or public works website for exact requirements and permitted bag types.
What remains allowed or regulated
Not all bags are prohibited. The rules target specific thin, single-use plastic bags while allowing other materials under conditions. Below are important permitted uses and exceptions.
- Reusable plastic carryout bags meeting durability standards may be sold.
- Paper carryout bags may be sold, often with a minimum fee.
- Plastic produce bags below the regulated thickness may still be used in some contexts.
- Small restaurants and food vendors may have tailored rules for specific items.
- Retailers may sell plastic garbage bags and other thick plastic bags not intended as carryout bags.
Enforcement and compliance
Enforcement is primarily carried out by local agencies and, in some cases, CalRecycle. Initial approaches often include education, guidance, and warnings before citations. Repeated noncompliance can lead to penalties, which vary by jurisdiction. Many jurisdictions prefer outreach to ensure retailers and vendors understand and follow the rules, especially for small businesses.
Practical steps for today
- Businesses: Confirm whether your city or county has additional rules; train staff on allowed bag types; post compliance notices; verify bag specifications and fees.
- Consumers: Bring reusable totes or compliant bags; expect to pay for paper or reusable bags where fees apply; check local rules if you are in a city with preexisting ordinances.
Common questions and clarifications
- Is this a total ban on all plastic bags? No; thin single-use plastic carryout bags are prohibited, but thicker plastic and other bag types remain available under rules.
- Do I have to pay for every bag? Fees vary by jurisdiction and bag type; paper and some reusable bags may be subject to a minimum charge.
- What if my city or county has stricter rules? Follow the stricter local requirements; they may include additional bag types or lower fee thresholds.
- Do the rules apply to restaurants and food vendors? They often apply, with some tailoring for direct food service; check local specifics.
- Are compostable bags allowed? Permissibility depends on local rules and whether they meet standards; many jurisdictions restrict compostables to specific uses.