USA Compostable Packaging Laws & State Regulations
The United States does not have one single nationwide compostable packaging law. Instead, packaging rules are set at the state level, and sometimes further shaped by local governments and waste programs.
For buyers supplying compostable bags in the U.S. market, this creates a common challenge: a product that is accepted in one state may face labeling or usage limits in another.
This page gives a practical overview of U.S. compostable packaging laws, explains shared principles across states, and links to detailed state-specific guides.
Why U.S. compostable packaging laws are state-based
Unlike many other markets, U.S. packaging regulations are mainly controlled by individual states. Each state focuses on different priorities, such as:
- Reducing contamination in recycling and compost streams
- Preventing misleading environmental claims
- Managing local waste infrastructure capacity
As a result, state compostable packaging laws vary in scope, enforcement, and detail, even when similar standards are used.
The United States does not have one single nationwide compostable packaging law. Instead, packaging rules are set at the state level, and sometimes further shaped by local governments and waste programs.
For buyers supplying compostable bags in the U.S. market, this creates a common challenge: a product that is accepted in one state may face labeling or usage limits in another.
This page gives a practical overview of U.S. compostable packaging laws, explains shared principles across states, and links to detailed state-specific guides.
State-by-state compostable packaging overview
California
- Focus: pre-checkout bags, compostable labeling, SB 1383
- Key issue: ASTM D6400 enforcement and bag use at retail
Washington
- Focus: compostable labeling and film bag identification
- Key issue: banned terms, visual identification, producer declaration
California
- Focus: plastic bag ban and compostable labeling limits
- Key issue: compostable bags are not allowed as checkout bags
Other U.S. States
- Focus: shared principles with local differences
- Key issue: conservative labeling and multi-state compliance
USA State × Bag Type × Suitability Comparison Table
| State / Use Case | Shopping Bags (Checkout) | Trash Bags / Liners | Key Standard | Main Risk Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Limited / Regulated | Allowed | ASTM D6400 | Pre-checkout bag rules |
| Washington | Allowed with rules | Allowed | ASTM D6400 / D6868 | Label wording & visuals |
| New York | ❌ Not allowed | Allowed | ASTM D6400 | Plastic bag ban |
| Other States | Varies | Usually allowed | ASTM D6400 | Local acceptance |
Which bag types are most affected by U.S. state laws
State packaging laws mainly affect:
- Shopping bags (especially checkout and carryout bags)
- Trash bags and compostable liners for organic waste
- Food-service and institutional packaging
For buyers, understanding the intended use of each bag is essential before choosing materials and labels.
How buyers manage multi-state compliance
Importers and brands supplying multiple states often take a practical approach:
- Use certified compostable materials as a baseline
- Avoid aggressive or unsupported environmental claims
- Keep labeling conservative and consistent
- Confirm local acceptance for organic waste programs
- Review samples and documents before volume orders
This approach reduces redesign costs and approval delays.
Request samples or pricing
For buyers supplying compostable bags across the U.S., sample testing and document review are often the first practical step.
