Consumer Bag Legislation by State & Local Jurisdiction

This matrix provides an overview of consumer bag legislation enacted at the state and local levels across the United States for paper and plastic carryout bags. It summarizes jurisdictions with bag bans, bag fees, material specifications, and states with preemption or “ban-on-bag bans” that restrict local regulation.

Because consumer bag regulations vary widely by jurisdiction—and often include nuanced exemptions, fee structures, and enforcement requirements—retailers should consult the underlying statutes or seek legal guidance when evaluating compliance obligations.

Important Regulatory Notes

California

State regulations grandfathered counties, cities, and municipalities that enacted local bag laws prior to September 1, 2014. Note, as of July 2026, CalRecycle has removed the section of its website that contained grandfathered ordinances, and now recommends that users seek legal council for compliance with local ordinances.

This matrix is intended for informational purposes only. Due to the summary nature of the table, it may not reflect all statutory nuances, exemptions, local requirements, or agency interpretations. Users should consult the applicable regulations directly and/or seek legal or regulatory advice when determining specific compliance obligations. This overview includes enacted laws only and does not cover proposed legislation or ordinances.