Deposit return schemes and plastic bags in France (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: France bans single-use plastic bags, free or paid, with an exception for home-compostable bio-based bags. The law only sets a framework for a drinks container deposit.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| National deposit return scheme in operationDeposit on drinks containers | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Containers coveredDeposit on drinks containers | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Deposit per containerDeposit on drinks containers | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Plastic carrier bag rulePlastic carrier bags | Banned [1] |
| Price of plastic carrier bagsPlastic carrier bags | Single-use plastic bags may not be supplied, free or for a charge. [1] |
| Bag thickness rulePlastic carrier bags | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- Article L541-10-11 sets collection targets and says deposit schemes may be set by decree if targets are missed. This page could not confirm whether a national scheme is in force.
- The ban on other single-use plastic bags used at the point of sale does not apply to bags that are home-compostable and wholly or partly bio-based.
- The thickness limit is not in article L541-15-10 and was not found in a source that could be read.
Sources
- Légifrance: Code de l'environnement, Chapitre Ier : Prévention et gestion des déchets (Articles L541-1 à L541-50) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.