US Bag Laws: What Compostable Bag Buyers Need to Know
California SB 1053 leads, and 20+ state and local laws restrict conventional checkout bags. Certified compostable bags are the compliant path.
The compliance pattern across US bag laws
Conventional HDPE checkout bags are restricted under California SB 1053 and 20+ state and local laws. The consistent compliance path across these laws is certification: ASTM D6400 with the BPI mark is the standard enforcement authorities and retail buyers recognise.
The compliance checklist
Certification
ASTM D6400 with the BPI mark on pack — the recognised proof for enforcement and retail audits alike.
Documentation
Keep the certificate file current and on hand; expired certificates break compliance instantly.
Labelling
The BPI mark plus disposal instructions must appear on pack — artwork revisions should be planned with your supplier.
PFAS-free
A PFAS-free declaration completes the compliance file — ask for one covering your exact formulation.
Photo: US retail checkout with paper/compostable bags
Compliant shopping bag formats
Our shopping-bags line includes BPI-certified t-shirt formats specified for US retail. Verify the BPI mark column before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
Which states have bag laws?
California SB 1053 is the flagship, and 20+ state and local laws restrict conventional checkout bags across the country. Because the requirements vary by jurisdiction, the safe compliance path is the same everywhere: ASTM D6400 certification with the BPI mark.
Does compliance require home or industrial compostability?
The operative requirement is ASTM D6400, which certifies industrial compostability. The laws do not distinguish between home and industrial routes — complete documentation is what matters at audit time.
How do I verify a supplier is compliant?
Ask for the current BPI certificate for each SKU, check the validity window, and request the PFAS-free declaration. If a supplier cannot produce all three documents, the bags are not audit-ready.
Download the catalogue and filter for BPI-certified formats for US retail.