Source Reduction Requirements for Businesses

Businesses operating in the City of Los Angeles (City) must comply with the following source reduction ordinances and applicable California state laws. These regulations can help your business reduce plastic waste, save money, and protect the environment.

Download the Source Reduction Informational Flyer (PDF)

Source Reduction is eliminating waste before it is created. Waste is prevented or reduced through the design, manufacture, purchase, and use of alternative materials and products. 

Foodservice Establishments

• Eliminate Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): Use non-EPS foodware to serve food and beverages. EPS is commonly known as foam or Styrofoam™.
  • Read Ordinance 187717
  • Read the FAQs
  • View the EPS Product Alternatives Guide
• Carryout Bags: For takeout or delivery, provide only paper or reusable carryout bags. Reusable plastic bags are permitted if they are at least 2.25 mils thick and meet all required specifications.
  • Read Ordinance 187716
  • Read the FAQs
• Bag Charges: You must charge 10¢ per paper bag provided. Reusable bags may be provided for a charge or free of charge.
• Disposable Foodware Accessories (Upon Request Only): Only provide disposable foodware accessories (like plastic straws and utensils) when specifically requested by a customer.
  • Read Ordinance 187030
• Advisory Notice: Post an advisory notice informing customers of the "upon request" requirement. Download the Disposable Foodware Advisory Notice (PDF).
• Online/Mobile Ordering: If your business uses an online or mobile ordering service, ensure the available disposable foodware accessory options are listed on the menu, allowing customers to opt-in to receive them. Only include items the customer selected.

Retail Establishments

• Eliminate Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): Sell non-EPS products and use non-EPS materials for packaging.
  • Read Ordinance 187717
  • View the EPS Product Alternatives Guide
• Carryout Bags: Use only paper or reusable carryout bags at checkout. Reusable plastic bags are permitted if they are at least 2.25 mils thick and meet all required specifications.
  • Read Ordinance 187716
  • Read the FAQs
• Bag Charges: You must charge 10¢ per paper bag provided. Reusable bags may be provided for a charge or free of charge.

Additional Requirements for Stores (State Law)

If your business is classified as a "Store" (which includes grocery stores, large retailers with a pharmacy, liquor stores, convenience stores, and foodmarts), you must adhere to state requirements:

• Use only paper bags at checkout.
• Charge a minimum of 10¢ per paper bag.
• Provide pre-checkout bags (produce or product bags) that are made of paper or certified compostable material.
• Review SB1053 and SB1046 requirements for stores.

Related Documents (Spanish Translations)

• Folleto Informativo sobre Reducción en el Origen (PDF)
• Guía de Alternativas a los Productos de EPS (PDF)
• Aviso sobre Accesorios para Servicios de Alimentos Desechables a Petición (PDF)

Ordinances 182604 and 187716 require stores and large shops to submit a quarterly report to LASAN on carryout bag sales. Download the Quarterly Reporting Form (PDF).

Who Needs to Report

• Stores: Grocery stores, large retailers with a pharmacy, liquor stores, convenience stores, and foodmarts.
• Large Shops: Apparel stores, food or beverage facilities, and hardware stores with more than 26 employees.

When is the Report Due?

• Q1 (January 1 to March 31): Due April 30
• Q2 (April 1 to June 30): Due July 31
• Q3 (July 1 to September 30): Due October 31
• Q4 (October 1 to December 31): Due January 31

How to Submit Your Report

Submit the completed and signed quarterly report using one of the following methods:

• Email: SRCRD@lacity.org
• Mail: 
  Sanitation/SRCRD
  1149 S. Broadway, 5th Floor
  Los Angeles CA 90015
• Fax: (213) 485-3671

For additional information or support, please contact us:

• Phone: 213-485-2260
• Email: san_sourcereduction@lacity.org

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