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Michigan's Bottle Deposit Law

Michigan's Bottle Deposit Law

Michigan's Bottle Deposit Law

Michigan’s Bottle Deposit Law: What You Need to Know

Michigan's Bottle Deposit Law helps cut down on litter and supports recycling. All makers, distributors, and stores that sell returnable drink containers must follow the law. Violations can lead to fines and loss of a liquor license.

Man hand puts plastic bottle to the bottle recycling machine.

What Stores Must Do

To comply with Michigan's Bottle Deposit Law, stores must:

  • Charge a 10-cent deposit on eligible drink containers.
  • Take back clean containers of the same brand, size, and type they sell.
  • Refund the full deposit up to $25 per day per person.
  • Accept returns during normal business hours.
  • Offer hand counts if return machines are not working.

Stores may refuse containers they do not sell. They can also refuse containers that are very dirty.

Read the full Bottle Deposit Law guidance

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What Stores Cannot Do

Fraud by stores or distributors may lead to civil or criminal charges. This includes false return counts or false claims against other businesses. Stores are in violation of the law if they:

  • set return limits below the $25 daily limit;
  • use lack of space as a reason to refuse returns; or
  • use return rules to stop people from making legal returns.

Explore Michigan’s bottle deposit FAQs

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Penalties for Bottle Deposit Law Violations

Each day a violation happens is a separate offense. Businesses may face:

  • Fines $100-$1,000
  • Consumer complaints and investigations
  • Court action
  • Suspension or loss of a liquor license
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Best Practices

To follow the law and exercise best practices, businesses should:

  • Post return hours and rules
  • Train workers
  • Keep return machines working
  • Watch for fraud
  • Follow guidance from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
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Filing a Complaint

Consumers should first talk to the store manager.

If the problem is not fixed, they can file a complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division online or call 1-877-765-8388.