DA Thien Ho Announces Settlement with Sephora Relating to Environmental Laws and Unfair Business Practices

The Sacramento County District Attorney's Office, in conjunction with 24 District Attorney's and City Attorney's Offices, has reached a $775,000 settlement with Sephora USA regarding the alleged improper handling of hazardous waste generated as part of Sephora's retail operations.

The judgment in case 25CV020603 was filed in Sacramento County Superior Court.

After an investigation, the District Attorneys filed a civil enforcement action alleging that Sephora improperly handled waste that met the definitions of hazardous or medical waste under California law. The waste consisted largely of damaged, returned or expired items which could not be sold.

Under the terms of the settlement, Sephora will pay $550,000 in civil penalties, $200,000 in cost recovery and $25,000 to the Environmental Enforcement and Training Account managed by the California Environmental Protection Agency. Sacramento County will receive $77,730 of the combined penalties and costs.

District Attorney Thien Ho states, "These continued enforcement efforts ensure businesses follow the law when it comes to handling hazardous waste. Our office is committed to protecting both the public and the environment, and we will hold companies accountable to ensure they operate responsibly and within the law."