Do you need to register for SB 54?
SB 54 takes effect June 1, 2026 and reaches every producer shipping into California, including DTC brands and out-of-state manufacturers.
Do you sell packaged products in California?
This includes products sold online that ship to California addresses.
- 01GeographyAnswering now
- 02MaterialPending
- 03RevenuePending
- 04RecyclabilityPending
- 05PCR contentPending
What is SB 54?
Four things to know before the June 2026 compliance window closes on your packaging: the act itself, the deadlines, what changes on your bottle, and what CalRecycle will ask you to prove.
Producer responsibility, in plain language.
California's Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54) requires any brand that sells packaged goods into California to register with CalRecycle and meet escalating recycled content and recyclability targets starting June 1, 2026. It applies to out-of-state sellers and DTC brands, not just California companies.
The clock started in June.
The first compliance window opened when CalRecycle approved final regulations in June 2026. Brands shipping plastic packaging into California need to hit minimum PCR thresholds or pay into the Producer Responsibility Fund. Targets ratchet up annually through 2032. Our guide on how to prepare for the SB 54 deadline covers the full timeline.
Verified PCR, not virgin.
If your bottles are PET, you'll need verified post-consumer recycled content. Our breakdown of how to transition to rPET under SB 54 walks through the switch. Not sure what PCR percentage to start with? This guide covers 35% vs 50% vs 100% and when each tier makes sense.
Documentation, certified.
CalRecycle will ask for documentation. You need chain-of-custody certification from your supplier. Here's how to verify recycled content with GRS, SCS, and ISCC Plus. Every Propacks bottle ships with third-party certification.