SB 54: California's Packaging EPR Law — What Producers and Brands Need to Know

Substantively reviewed: 2026-10-13. General educational information; confirm current requirements with your jurisdiction and qualified counsel.

SB 54: Packaging Producer Responsibility

SB 54 establishes extended producer responsibility for covered single-use packaging and plastic food service ware. Producer duties differ from a facility waste generator’s collection duties; outsourcing waste management does not settle producer obligations.

Dates and affected roles

Permanent regulations took effect May 1, 2026. The program has 2032 reduction, recycling and recyclability goals. Producers must review current CalRecycle guidance and the producer responsibility organization process for their products and roles.

Qualifications and records

Covered materials, producer definitions, exclusions and exemptions require a product-specific review. Compile packaging specifications, material quantities, supplier information and applicable program records before seeking guidance.

Practical next steps

Identify who is the producer for each product, map covered packaging, and check current registration and reporting instructions with CalRecycle and the relevant organization. Coordinate a legal review when responsibility or an exemption is unclear.

How ICTV may help

ICTV can discuss material recovery and waste documentation. ICTV does not replace a producer responsibility organization, determine exemption eligibility, or guarantee legal compliance.