Enforcement Overview

The Authority expects stores to voluntarily comply and will provide assistance to help stores make the transition as easy as possible.  Repeated non-compliance with the terms of the Ordinance could result in legal consequences including civil action and/or administrative citation.  Citations range from $100 to $1,000 depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

Violation of any provision shall constitute grounds for a notice of violation and fine by an Authority Representative.  Warnings and enforcement actions will be taken as needed after November 1, 2107 for Retail Establishments (May 1, 2018 for Eating Establishments).  Full enforcement details can be found in Section 7 of the ordinance.

Correcting Violations

If you received an Official Notification, a Notice of Violation or an Administrative Citation, follow the “Actions Required to Cure” the violation identified in the notification. The information below is provided to further assist you.  Please refer to your Official Notification, Notice of Violation or Administrative Citation to identify which violation(s) need to be corrected.  If you need another copy of your letter, please complete the Contact Us form or call the Reusable Bag Ordinance phone line at (510) 891-6575.

A full listing of the violations and how to correct them can be found here.

More information about citations can be found here, including frequently asked questions.