This was common in the 1960s and earlier. This material can be very hazardous. The popcorn ceilings on the west coast, mostly in California, are typically made from an asbestos-containing material. The popcorn ceilings in the Midwest and on the East coast typically do not contain asbestos. Removal of asbestos - Asbestos should be removed and disposed of by a qualified contractor.
Most states maintain lists of qualified contractors.
Contact the EPA or the state department of environmental protection for an updated list of qualified testing and or mitigation contractors. It is not recommended that homeowners remove the asbestos themselves due to the associated health risk. Subsequent to any remediation, an air test should be performed to ensure that no fibers remain.