Reusable Bag Ordinance

Click here to view ACWMA Reusable Bag Ordinance 2016-02. For more information about the specific bag requirements, check out these resources. You can also visit the General FAQs.

We cannot provide direct assistance until the citation is paid or successfully appealed. However, information on how to comply and correct violations can be found by visiting the Listing of Violations page. For downloadable resources, view our Support Materials for Retailers and Restaurants.

You have the right to appeal the citation within 30 calendar days of the date on which you received the citation letter.

Yes, payment of the fine must be completed within 30 calendar days of the letter receipt date. Failure to do so may result in additional fines and charges including, but not limited to, attorney fees, interest and recovery fees. For a list of actions required to cure your violation(s), see the table on page 2 of your Administrative Citation.

If you would like to appeal the citation, you will need to follow the appeal process outlined below.

It is highly unlikely that you received a citation letter but not the first two letters, as citations have been issued only to businesses that have been issued at least two prior enforcement letters. If you would like to get copies of those letters, please complete the Contact Us form or leave a message for call back on the Reusable Bag Information line at (510) 891-6575.

If you would like to appeal the citation, you will need to follow the appeal process outlined below.

The fine must be paid within 30 calendar days of the date on which you received the Administrative Citation. Citations are either delivered personally by an ACWMA representative or delivered by certified mail. Note the receipt date is not listed on your citation letter. If you need to know the date in which your letter was received, please complete the Contact Us form.

To clear the citation you must pay the fine listed on your citation letter. To reduce the likelihood of future citations, correct the violations and remain in compliance with the requirements of the Ordinance by providing compliant paper or reusable bags, charging each time a bag is provided to a customer, and listing the bag charges on the customer receipt. Compliance will be determined upon re-inspection of your site.

You can pay the fine online or by mailing a check.

To pay online:

The Reusable Bag Ordinance Section 7 has a fine schedule for violations of the Ordinance. Separate fines are imposed for each requirement of the Ordinance that is violated. Please refer to the table on page 1 of your citation letter to determine which specific violation(s) were witnessed at your location.

Citations are issued to retail businesses and eating establishments found to be in violation of the Reusable Bag Ordinance. Administrative Citations are issued after at least two official notices have been mailed to the business. If you need copies of previously sent enforcement letters—the Official Notification letter or Notice to Correct Violation letter—please complete the Contact Us form.

Citations may be issued for: