What Happens If You Miss an EPR Deadline?
April 29, 2026 · 5 min read
If you sell packaged products in the United States, EPR compliance deadlines are not optional. Missing them can cost you tens of thousands of dollars per day — and in some states, it can even restrict your ability to sell products at all.
The penalties by state
California — Up to $50,000/day
Under SB 54, the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) can impose civil penalties of up to $50,000 per day for each violation. Brands that fail to register, report, or pay fees face escalating penalties.
Colorado — $20,000 + $6,000/day
Colorado's HB 22-1355 allows penalties up to $20,000 for initial violations plus $6,000 per day for ongoing non-compliance. The state can also seek injunctions preventing the sale of non-compliant products.
Minnesota — Up to $100,000/day
Minnesota's HF 3911 includes the steepest penalties: up to $100,000 per day for repeat violations. The state commissioner can also issue compliance orders requiring immediate action.
Oregon — $25,000/day
Oregon's SB 582 authorizes penalties of up to $25,000 per day for violations. The DEQ can also revoke registration for persistent non-compliance.
Beyond fines: the hidden costs
Financial penalties are just the beginning. Non-compliance can also mean:
- Injunctions — court orders preventing you from selling non-compliant products in that state
- Reputational damage — public records of non-compliance that customers and partners can find
- Retroactive fees — you owe fees for all the months you were non-compliant, plus penalties
- Audit risk — non-filers are more likely to be selected for state audits
What to do right now
- Check your obligations — Use our free Am I Covered? tool to see which states require you to register.
- Know your deadlines — Check our deadline calendar for each state's registration and reporting dates.
- Estimate your fees — Use the EPR fee calculator to budget for compliance costs.
- Start the registration process — each state's PRO has an online portal. Don't wait until the deadline.
Not sure where to start?
Our free tools help you check your obligations and estimate your fees in 60 seconds.