California, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Sephora has been fined $775,000 due to improper hazardous waste management across its California retail locations. The penalty comes after an investigation found the company mishandled damaged and expired merchandise, leading to serious environmental compliance violations. Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office and 24 other district attorneys initiated the civil enforcement action. This settlement underscores the necessity for retailers to adhere strictly to environmental regulations, as compliance scrutiny continues to tighten statewide.
California—Sephora, a leading retailer of celebrity makeup and skincare products, has been hit with a significant fine amounting to $775,000 due to improper management of hazardous waste at its retail locations across the state. This penalty arises primarily from the company’s mishandling of damaged, returned, and expired merchandise, which is classified as hazardous waste under California law.
The civil enforcement action was initiated by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office alongside 24 city and district attorneys from various parts of California. The final settlement includes a breakdown of penalties: $550,000 designated as a civil penalty, $200,000 for cost recovery, and an additional $25,000 allocated for the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account overseen by the California Environmental Protection Agency. Out of the overall penalties and costs, Sacramento County will receive approximately $77,730.
An investigation into Sephora’s waste management practices revealed that the company consistently failed to accurately determine and document which items that were disposed of were used, expired, recalled, or damaged. Furthermore, it was noted that Sephora did not maintain proper records regarding test results or overall waste management practices.
The settlement was agreed upon in Sacramento County Superior Court, marking a significant development in the state’s ongoing efforts to enforce environmental compliance among retailers. Sephora, known for its extensive presence with over 2,700 stores in 35 countries, including more than 100 locations throughout California, operates its U.S. division from San Francisco. The company is a subsidiary of the luxury conglomerate LVMH.
Despite the ruling, a spokesperson for Sephora stated that the company has consistently complied with hazardous waste regulations. It’s essential to mention that the settlement was agreed upon without the company admitting any wrongdoing.
Regulatory Context
This incident occurs amidst heightened scrutiny regarding environmental compliance, with similar actions taken against other major retailers like United Parcel Service Inc., which faced a lawsuit in August for improper hazardous waste disposal. Recent years have seen California tightening its regulations surrounding waste management, establishing itself as a pioneer in enacting environmental protections, including a ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products.
As consumers become more aware of corporate environmental practices, the pressures on companies to adhere strictly to regulations will likely intensify. This case against Sephora serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability in waste management practices, particularly in the cosmetics and personal care industry.
Key Facts
- Fine Amount: $775,000
- Civil Penalty: $550,000
- Cost Recovery: $200,000
- Environmental Enforcement Account: $25,000
- Amount for Sacramento County: $77,730
- Sephora Store Count in CA: Over 100
- Sephora Founded: 1969 in France
- Current Store Count Globally: Over 2,700
Conclusion
This case highlights the ongoing challenges retailers face in adhering to environmental regulations and the potential consequences of non-compliance. As regulations become more stringent, companies like Sephora will need to maintain diligent waste management practices to avoid similar penalties in the future.
FAQ Section
What is the total fine Sephora has received?
$775,000
What is the civil penalty amount included in the fine?
$550,000
How much will Sacramento County receive from the penalties?
Approximately $77,730
What types of merchandise led to the hazardous waste classification?
Damaged, returned, and expired merchandise
In which court was the settlement agreed upon?
Sacramento County Superior Court
What is Sephora’s stance on compliance with hazardous waste regulations?
The company has stated that it has always complied with hazardous waste regulations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times
- Cosmetics Business
- Personal Care Insights
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sephora
- Google Search: Sephora hazardous waste fine
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, 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 the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
