California, October 2, 2025
News Summary
California has issued a $775,000 fine against Sephora for improper hazardous waste disposal at its retail stores. This penalty includes a $550,000 civil penalty and aims to address the company’s failure to properly manage returned and expired products. The enforcement reflects growing scrutiny of environmental compliance in the retail sector. Sephora, operating over 2,700 stores globally, reassures that it maintains efforts to adhere to environmental regulations despite settling the case without admitting wrongdoing.
California has imposed a $775,000 fine on beauty retailer Sephora for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its retail locations across the state. This significant penalty stems from the company’s mishandling of damaged, returned, and expired merchandise, which is categorized as hazardous waste under California law.
The fine includes a $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, and $25,000 allocated for the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account supervised by the California Environmental Protection Agency. From this total, Sacramento County is set to receive approximately $77,730.
The enforcement action was initiated by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office alongside 24 city and district attorneys statewide, reflecting a growing concern for environmental compliance among retail companies. The investigation revealed that Sephora failed to accurately determine and document which disposed items were used, expired, recalled, or damaged. Additionally, the company did not maintain records of test results or adhere to proper waste management practices.
This legal settlement was reached in Sacramento County Superior Court. As a major player in the beauty industry, Sephora operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries globally, including more than 100 locations throughout California. Founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France, the company now functions as a subsidiary of LVMH, with its U.S. branch headquartered in San Francisco.
A Sephora representative stated that the company has always complied with hazardous waste regulations and opted for the settlement without admitting any wrongdoing. This incident is part of a broader scrutiny of environmental compliance among retailers. A recent lawsuit against United Parcel Service Inc. for similar hazardous waste disposal violations underscores an industry-wide concern.
California is recognized for its stringent waste management regulations and has taken a leading role in promoting environmental protection policies, including a recent ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products.
Background on Hazardous Waste Management Regulations
Hazardous waste management regulations in California are designed to protect the environment and public health. These regulations require businesses to properly identify, handle, and dispose of materials that can pose risks to human health or the environment. The state has intensified its enforcement actions in recent years, targeting businesses that fail to comply with these important environmental regulations.
Sephora’s Response to the Settlement
While Sephora has settled the lawsuit, the company maintains its commitment to adhere to hazardous waste regulations. The company’s decision to settle may be part of a strategic move to mitigate further legal complications while emphasizing its compliance efforts moving forward.
Environmental Compliance in Retail
The focus on environmental compliance is intensifying within the retail sector. Many companies are being scrutinized for their waste management practices, leading to increased oversight and enforcement efforts from state authorities. Retailers must navigate these regulatory landscapes carefully to avoid substantial fines and reputational damage.
Conclusion
In summary, Sephora’s $775,000 fine for improper hazardous waste management illustrates the growing emphasis on environmental compliance within the retail industry. As California continues to enforce its stringent waste management regulations, it serves as a reminder for all businesses to prioritize responsible waste disposal practices.
FAQ
What fine has Sephora been issued for hazardous waste management?
Sephora is facing a $775,000 fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California retail locations.
What does the fine include?
The fine 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.
What was the result of the investigation into Sephora’s practices?
The investigation revealed that Sephora failed to properly determine and document which items disposed of were used, expired, recalled, or damaged, and did not maintain records of test results or waste management practices.
How many stores does Sephora operate globally?
Sephora operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries worldwide, including more than 100 locations in California.
Key Features of The Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fine Amount | $775,000 |
| Civil Penalty | $550,000 |
| Cost Recovery | $200,000 |
| Allocated for Training | $25,000 for Environmental Enforcement and Training Account |
| Sacramento County Revenue | $77,730 |
| Number of Retail Locations | Over 2,700 in 35 countries |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Sephora Settles with Sacramento County
- Cosmetics Business: Sephora Lands $775,000 Fine
- Personal Care Insights: Sephora Hazardous Waste Fine
- Wikipedia: Hazardous Waste Management
- Forrester: CCPA Penalties – Sephora Hit with $1.2 Million Fine
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange 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 Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
