California, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Sephora is facing a significant fine of $775,000 for mishandling hazardous waste at its California stores. This enforcement action, led by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office and involving 24 district attorneys, highlights the retail giant’s failure to properly identify and document hazardous materials. The settlement includes a $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 for cost recovery, and $25,000 for environmental training. Sephora, founded in 1969, operates over 2,700 stores globally and has more than 100 locations 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 stems from 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, with participation from 24 city and district attorneys throughout the state. The settlement comprises a $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, and $25,000 allocated for the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account overseen by the California Environmental Protection Agency. Approximately $77,730 from the total penalties and costs will go to Sacramento County.
The investigation into Sephora’s practices revealed that the company failed to appropriately identify and document which items they disposed of were used, expired, recalled, or damaged. Furthermore, Sephora did not maintain adequate records of test results or waste management practices, leading to the enforcement action and subsequent settlement, which was finalized in Sacramento County Superior Court.
Founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France, Sephora has grown significantly to operate over 2,700 stores across 35 countries worldwide, including more than 100 locations in California alone. The company is a subsidiary of LVMH and runs its U.S. operations out of San Francisco.
A Sephora spokesperson mentioned that the company has always complied with hazardous waste regulations and agreed to the settlement without admitting to any wrongdoing. This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of environmental compliance among retailers. Notably, a similar lawsuit was filed against United Parcel Service Inc. in August for improper hazardous waste disposal.
California has been at the forefront of establishing stringent regulations concerning waste management, being a leader in enacting environmental protections, which also includes a ban on plastic microbeads in personal care products.
Key Aspects of the Case
- Fine amount: $775,000
- Components of the fine: $550,000 civil penalty, $200,000 in cost recovery, $25,000 for environmental account
- Number of cities and districts involved: 24
- Sacramento’s share: $77,730
- Sephora’s founding year: 1969
- Number of Sephora stores globally: 2,700+
- Sephora locations in California: 100+
- Sephora’s U.S. headquarters: San Francisco
Background on Hazardous Waste Regulations in California
California has implemented strict regulations surrounding hazardous waste management, reflecting the state’s commitment to environmental protections. The scrutiny faced by retailers like Sephora is part of a broader movement towards ensuring compliance within the retail sector. The growing focus on sustainability and responsible waste management is shaping the landscape for various industries, pushing companies to reassess their practices.
Understanding Hazardous Waste Management in Retail
Improper disposal of hazardous materials not only poses a risk to public health but also leads to significant financial penalties for businesses that fail to comply with established regulations. Companies are encouraged to adopt best practices and document waste management procedures to avoid legal repercussions and contribute positively to environmental conservation.
FAQ
What was Sephora fined for?
Sephora was fined for improper disposal of hazardous waste at its California retail locations.
How much is the fine?
The fine amounts to $775,000.
What is included in the settlement?
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.
Who filed the civil enforcement action?
The civil enforcement action was filed by the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, along with 24 city and district attorneys from across the state.
When was Sephora founded?
Sephora was founded in 1969 as a small perfume shop in France.
How many stores does Sephora operate worldwide?
Sephora operates over 2,700 stores in 35 countries worldwide.
What is Sephora’s U.S. headquarters?
Sephora operates its U.S. branch out of San Francisco.
Chart: Key Features of the Sephora Fine Case
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fine Amount | $775,000 |
| Civil Penalty | $550,000 |
| Cost Recovery | $200,000 |
| Environmental Training Fund | $25,000 |
| Sacramento County Share | $77,730 |
| Founded Year | 1969 |
| Global Stores | 2,700+ |
| Stores in California | 100+ |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: Sephora Settles with Sacramento County
- Cosmetics Business: Sephora USA Lands $775,000 Fine
- Personal Care Insights: Sephora Hazardous Waste Fine
- Wikipedia: Hazardous Waste
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hazardous Waste
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of 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 from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
