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In November 2010, the County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance that prohibits the distribution of single use plastic carryout bags at certain stores in the County unincorporated area, and requires them to charge ten cents (10¢) for each paper bag provided to a customer.

Ordinance Documents

Affected Stores

Following are links to assist affected stores in the unincorporated County areas:

  • Store FAQ page - Provides more information about the Ordinance
  • Quarterly Report [PDF 193KB] - To be completed and submitted within 30 days after each quarter
    • (NOTE: All monies collected for charging recyclable paper carryout bags are to be retained by the store. The County does not collect these monies.)
  • Store Quarterly Reports page - Provides more information on reporting requirements

The following section shows the minimum requirements for carryout bags affected stores are allowed to provide customers.

Reusable Bag Minimum Requirements

  • Lifespan of 125 uses (able to carry a load of at least 22 pounds over 175 feet per use)
  • Volume of 15 liters
  • Heavy Metal content less than toxic limits (lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals)
  • Thickness of 2.25 mils, if plastic
  • The following must be printed on the bag or on a tag that is permanently affixed to the bag:
    • Fiber Content
    • Country of Origin
    • Manufacturer Name
    • Statement that the bag does not contain lead, cadmium, or any other heavy metal in toxic amounts
    • Percentage of postconsumer recycled material used, if any
  • Click here for resources to meet these requirements and a list of confirmed compliant reusable bags.

Paper Bag Minimum Requirements

  • Contains no old-growth fiber
  • 100 percent recyclable overall
  • Contains a minimum of 40 percent postconsumer recycled material
  • Capable of composting (consistent with the timeline and specifications of ASTM D6400)
  • The following must be printed on the bag or on a tag that is permanently affixed to the bag:
    • Manufacturer Name
    • Country of Origin
    • Percentage of postconsumer recycled material used
    • The word “Recyclable” in a highly visible manner on the outside of the bag
  • Click here for resources to meet these requirements.
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