Starting in 2028, California’s SB 1280 requires a switch to refillable propane cylinders, ending the use of single-use cylinders. This change will help create a cleaner and safer future for outdoor and recreational activities.
Starting in 2028, California State Law SB 1280 — Waste management: propane cylinders: reusable or refillable — will ban the sale of single-use, one-pound propane cylinders in California.
At the same time, all one-pound propane cylinders distributed in California will be reusable and refillable.
A previous version of the bill was vetoed as a "ban without a plan," but the recently expanded market for reusable and refillable one-pound cylinders may be one reason why the bill passed this year. Championed by Senator John Laird (D–Santa Cruz), this legislation aims to reduce environmental waste and promote sustainable practices by phasing out single-use propane cylinders.
Single-use cylinders are popular for recreational use and are commonly littered at campsites, beaches, and parks. When and where these cylinders are collected, their disposal is costly. Partially-full cylinders threaten the safety of hazardous waste employees. Also, when cylinders are not properly disposed of, they end up in landfills.
While there are currently recycling and refilling stations for one-pound propane cylinders throughout the state, the ban encourages wider adoption of reusable and refillable containers. This transition is not just a legal requirement, but also an opportunity for all of us to contribute to resource recovery and worker safety.
With the implementation of this law, we can look forward to a future where the sale requirements will encourage the development of more refilling stations, and where we work together to safeguard the environment and hazardous waste workers.
Explore resources to transition to reusable propane cylinders
- The “ReFuel Your Fun” campaign, administered by the California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC), is a statewide initiative to promote the sale and distribution of reusable or refillable propane cylinders for recreational purposes. It offers resources for residents and businesses, including information on where to buy reusable gas cylinders and a map of refilling stations.
- Read and share the summary of SB 1280 on Leginfo.
- Learn more about the problem with using gas cylinders for common activities in this summary produced by the California Product Stewardship Council (CSPC)
For residents: Transitioning to reusable cylinders
Where can I buy reusable one-pound propane cylinders and refill them?
Visit the link below, provided by the “ReFuel Your Fun” campaign, and type in your address to find a local retailer that sells, refills, or exchanges reusable one-pound propane cylinders.
How can I safely dispose of single-use, one-pound disposable propane cylinders?
Residents and businesses can dispose of single-use, one-pound disposable propane cylinders at participating retail collection locations or at the Recology Household Hazardous Waste facility at 501 Tunnel Ave, San Francisco, CA.
Residents can also search for specific disposal locations on sfrecycles.org.
For businesses: Complying with SB 1280
What does the enactment of this state law mean for my retail business?
Visit the "ReFuel Your Fun" campaign website (linked below) to learn how your business can distribute reusable cylinders and provide refilling services.
What is the benefit of complying with this legislation?
By proactively adapting to this legislative change and leveraging the support offered by the "ReFuel Your Fun" campaign, your retail business can position itself as a leader in sustainability, meet regulatory requirements, and continue to serve your customers effectively.
