California, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Sephora is facing a $775,000 fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California locations, primarily due to mishandling of expired and returned products. The penalties include a $550,000 civil penalty and $200,000 for cost recovery, with funds allocated to environmental training. The investigation showed deficiencies in waste management practices, leading to scrutiny of the retailer’s compliance with environmental regulations. This case reflects a wider trend of increased regulatory oversight concerning waste management among retailers in California.
California
Sephora, a leading retailer of celebrity makeup and skincare products, is facing a $775,000 fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California retail locations. The fine is primarily due to the mishandling of damaged, returned, and expired merchandise, which is classified as hazardous waste under California law.
A civil enforcement action was filed by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, along with 24 city and district attorneys from across the state. The settlement includes a $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, and $25,000 designated for the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account managed by the California Environmental Protection Agency. Sacramento County will receive approximately $77,730 from the total penalties and costs.
The investigation revealed that Sephora failed to properly determine and document which items disposed of were used, expired, recalled, or damaged. Additionally, the retailer did not maintain records of test results or waste management practices. The judgment was settled in Sacramento County Superior Court.
Founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France, Sephora now operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries worldwide, including more than 100 locations in California. The company, a subsidiary of LVMH, operates its U.S. branch out of San Francisco.
A spokesperson for Sephora stated that the company has always complied with hazardous waste regulations and agreed to the settlement without admitting wrongdoing. This incident is part of a broader scrutiny of environmental compliance among retailers, as seen in a similar lawsuit against United Parcel Service Inc. in August for improper hazardous waste disposal.
California has recently established strict regulations regarding waste management and is a leader in enacting environmental protections, including a ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products.
Key Facts
- Sephora fined $775,000 for improper hazardous waste management
- Settlement includes $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, and $25,000 for environmental training
- Sacramento County receives $77,730 from penalties
- Over 100 Sephora locations in California
- Founded in 1969, now with 2,700 stores worldwide
- Broader scrutiny of retail environmental compliance
Background
Improper management of hazardous waste has become a pressing issue for many retailers, prompting statewide efforts to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The scrutiny placed on Sephora reflects a growing trend regarding environmental responsibility among businesses. As California continues to set stringent environmental policies, companies are expected to adhere strictly to regulations or face penalties.
FAQ
What is the reason for Sephora’s fine in California?
Sephora is facing a $775,000 fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California retail locations, primarily due to the mishandling of damaged, returned, and expired merchandise classified as hazardous waste under California law.
What does the settlement with Sephora include?
The settlement includes a $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, and $25,000 designated for the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account managed by the California Environmental Protection Agency. Sacramento County will receive approximately $77,730 from the total penalties and costs.
How many stores does Sephora operate in California?
Sephora operates more than 100 locations in California.
When was Sephora founded?
Sephora was founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France.
What are the recent trends influencing environmental compliance among retailers?
This incident is part of broader scrutiny of environmental compliance among retailers, as seen in a similar lawsuit against United Parcel Service Inc. in August for improper hazardous waste disposal.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Sephora Settles with Sacramento County
- WilmerHale: California AG Issues Largest Monetary Penalty
- Cosmetics Business: Sephora USA Lands $775,000 Fine
- Google Search: Sephora California fine
- CBS News: California Sephora Kids Bill Skincare Concerns
- Wikipedia: Hazardous Waste
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
