The Alameda County Waste Management Authority enforces the Reusable Bag Ordinance for businesses in Alameda County. State-regulated store enforcement began January 1, 2026.

Enforcement Process

The Authority takes a compliance-assistance approach:

  1. Education and outreach — Free materials and guidance for businesses
  2. Official notifications — Written notice of requirements
  3. Notices of violation — Formal notice of non-compliance with required corrections
  4. Administrative citations — Fines issued after at least two official notices

What Constitutes a Violation

Common violations include:

  • Distributing single-use plastic bags at checkout
  • Failing to charge the minimum 10-cent fee for compliant bags
  • Not itemizing bag charges on customer receipts
  • Distributing bags that don't meet specifications

See Violations for detailed violation types and correction procedures.

Penalties

Citations range from $100 to $1,000 depending on violation severity. Fines escalate for repeat offenses.

See Citations for the full fine structure, payment options, and appeal process.

Learn More

Violations

Types of violations, correction procedures, and what to do with non-compliant inventory.

Citations

Fine structure, payment options, and how to appeal a citation.

Report Non-Compliance

If you are aware of a store or eating establishment distributing single-use carryout bags, not charging for a reusable bag, and/or not itemizing bag charges on your receipt, we want to hear from you!  We are relying on consumers to help us reach out to stores not complying with the new law.

Report a non-compliant store

Questions?

We're available to help businesses understand requirements and achieve compliance.

Online: Contact Form | Email: bags@stopwaste.org | Phone: (510) 891-6575