Beverage Container Labeling Requirements
Beverage Manufacturers are responsible for properly labeling beverage containers, which are determined to be “in” the program. A qualifying beverage container sold or offered for sale in the state must have the message "California Redemption Value", "CA Redemption Value", "California Cash Refund", "CA Cash Refund" or “CA CRV".
These beverage containers are required to be clearly, prominently, and indelibly labeled by painting, printing, scratch embossing, or raised letter embossing as follows:
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Metal containers are required to be marked on the top end (Lid) of the container in minimum lettering size at least 3/16 inch in height. Metal Containers with a top lid of two (2) inches or less in diameter shall have a minimum lettering size of at least 1/8" (inch) in height. Scratch embossed lettering is required to be of a minimum width of 0.004 inch of disturbed surface metal.
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Glass containers and plastic containers are required to be free of notations resembling "No Deposit - No Return", and are required to be marked either:
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along the bottom edge of the container body label in minimum lettering size at least 3/16 inch in height; or · on a secondary label in minimum lettering size at least 3/16 inch in height; or
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on a container body label or secondary label with contrasting colors with legible lettering in minimum lettering size at least 1/8 inch in height. Contrasting colors shall direct the reader to the California redemption value message.
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Plastic portion container cups are required to be marked in minimum lettering size at least 1/8 inch in height on either the side of the container only or on the lid and bottom of the container.
How to get label Approval
In order to ensure that your container complies with the requirements listed above, we ask that a sample of each filled beverage container is sent to the Division for verification. Upon determination, we will provide you with a letter showing what container labels were approved or not approved.
If you are unsure your product is labeled correctly, you can mail it to:
Department of Conservation
Division of Recycling
Industry Services Branch
Attn: Beverage Container Review
801 K St, 14th Floor, MS 14-35
Sacramento, CA 95814
Be sure to include your name, address, telephone number and if applicable, your participant identification number.
Label Examples
Below is a link to view or print a copy of
The requirements listed above do not cover every aspect of the law. It is the responsibility of the beverage manufacturer and distributor to read and understand the statute and all applicable regulations. Failure to comply with the statute (Act) and/or regulations may result in fines and possible civil penalties. If you need clarification, please call the Client Services Section at (916) 323-1835. |