California, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Sephora is facing a fine of $775,000 due to improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California locations. The violation involves mishandling returned, expired, and damaged merchandise classified as hazardous. The fine includes a civil penalty and costs, with a portion going to the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account. This stems from a broader investigation into environmental compliance among retailers in California, reflecting the state’s strict waste management regulations.
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. Of the total penalties and costs, Sacramento County will receive approximately $77,730.
Investigation Findings
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. The judgment was settled in Sacramento County Superior Court.
Company Background
Sephora was founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France and now operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries worldwide, including more than 100 locations in California. The company, which is 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’s Environmental Regulations
California has recently established strict regulations regarding waste management, making it a leader in enacting environmental protections. These protections include a ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products.
Conclusion
The significant fine imposed on Sephora highlights the importance of proper hazardous waste management practices, especially as environmental scrutiny increases among businesses in California.
FAQ
What fine was Sephora issued for improper hazardous waste management?
Sephora is facing a $775,000 fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California retail locations.
What was the primary reason for the fine?
The fine is primarily due to the mishandling of damaged, returned, and expired merchandise, classified as hazardous waste under California law.
Who filed the enforcement action against Sephora?
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.
How is the settlement amount distributed?
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.
What specific issues were uncovered in the investigation?
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.
What is Sephora’s background?
Sephora was founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France and now operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries worldwide, including more than 100 locations in California.
What is California’s recent stance on environmental regulations?
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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Sephora Settles with Sacramento County
- Wikipedia: Sephora
- Cosmetics Business: Sephora $775,000 Fine
- Google Search: Sephora California Environmental Regulations
- Personal Care Insights: Sephora Hazardous Waste Fine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hazardous Waste
- Forrester: CCPA Penalties and Sephora
- Google News: Sephora Fine California
- CBS News: California Sephora Kids Bill
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles 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 Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
