As of January 1, 2026, stores in Alameda County no longer provide plastic bags at checkout. Here's what to expect when you shop.

What to Expect at Different Stores

Stores that sell food/alcohol (Grocery, Liquor, Pharmacy, etc.)

  • No plastic bags will be offered
  • Paper bags cost at least 10 cents each
  • Bring your own bags to avoid the fee

All other retail stores (Hardware, Clothing, Office Supply, etc.)

  • Stores may offer paper bags or thick, reusable, plastic bags
  • Any bag provided costs at least 10 cents
  • Bring your own bags to avoid the fee

Restaurants and Cafes

  • No thin plastic bags for takeout or delivery
  • Paper bags are free
  • Thick plastic bags (if offered) cost at least 10 cents

Why This Law Matters

Plastic bags:

  • Take hundreds of years to break down
  • Pollute waterways and harm wildlife
  • Cannot be recycled in curbside bins—they jam sorting equipment

By bringing your own bags, you're helping reduce waste and protect the environment. The ordinance has already achieved:

  • 80% decline in bag purchases by affected stores
  • 44% decrease in plastic bags found in county storm drains

Learn about the purpose and impact of this ordinance.

Bring Your Own Bags

You can always bring your own bags of any type—plastic, paper, reusable, or fabric. You're only charged for bags the store provides.

Tips for Remembering Your Bags

  • Keep compact bags in your purse, pocket, or car trunk
  • Hang bags on door knobs or coat racks as a visual reminder
  • Carry small purchases without a bag
  • Keep a stash of bags by your front door

Keeping Bags Clean

  • Wash fabric bags regularly
  • Soak plastic bags in soapy lemon water or vinegar
  • Designate specific bags for meats and fish

Bags You Can Still Get Free

Bags without handles used for product protection are not affected:

  • Produce bags for fruits and vegetables
  • Meat and deli bags at the counter
  • Bulk food bags for loose items
  • Prescription bags at pharmacies
  • Protective bags for soup containers or items that could spill

Free Bags for WIC and CalFresh/SNAP

If you participate in these programs, stores must provide recycled paper bags at no charge:

  • WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
  • CalFresh/SNAP (food assistance)

Simply use your benefits card or voucher at checkout.

Plastic Bag Recycling

Many stores no longer have plastic bag collection bins. Previous state requirements for in-store plastic bag recycling expired in 2020. Some retailers voluntarily continue collection—you can request this service from store management.

Questions?

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