Council Committees approve assessment of personal delivery devices after industry testimony and DOT liability questions

The Transportation Committee and Public Works Committee on Oct. 22 approved a motion directing a review of the city’s personal delivery devices program, after industry representatives urged continued piloting and Los Angeles Department of Transportation staff answered questions about liability and community outreach.

The motion by Councilmember Hernandez (to Martinez) asks LADOT to assess the personal delivery devices (PDD) pilot, identify recommended improvements, and provide a report back to the council. The committees approved the motion during the Transportation Committee roll call after a quorum was reached.

Why it matters: The motion will shape rules and oversight for sidewalk delivery robots and similar devices at a time when private companies are expanding fleets and the city weighs sidewalk access, public safety and data-sharing requirements.

Industry supporters spoke at public comment. “Koko would like to thank LADOT and city council for working with us for nearly half a decade now on a tremendously successful program,” said Carl Hansen, vice president of government relations for Koko Robotics. Hansen said Koko’s vehicles had traveled more than 1,000,000 miles, reduced emissions and partnered with local merchants.

Kelly Jones, government affairs manager at Servo Robotics, said her company focuses on short deliveries — "under 1.5 miles" — and highlighted fleet data-sharing with LADOT that could help identify sidewalk repairs and other infrastructure needs. “We take pride in being good stewards of the right of way, helping to advance the city's transportation and sustainability goals,” Jones said.

Councilmember Nazarian asked DOT and the City Attorney about liability if a device or vendor causes injury or property damage. Diego Cornejo, identified in the meeting as General Manager for LADOT, told the committee that indemnification language is included in permits issued to vendors. “The contractor indemnifies the city. And so for all of the claims that have been filed to date, the operator has paid on behalf of the city all of those claims,” Cornejo said, while noting one prior instance that required further review.

Cornejo also acknowledged the project manager for the item had stepped out of the room and said LADOT would follow up with committee members if additional contract language or legal review was needed. He said LADOT would work with councilmembers to examine contract language and strengthen indemnity provisions if necessary.

Councilmember Nazarian also asked whether disability advocates or civil liberties groups had been consulted; LADOT staff said they would provide details in the report back and referenced ongoing stakeholder conversations without giving specifics at the meeting.

Action: The committees approved the Hernandez motion to assess the PDD program. LADOT committed to a report back addressing liability language, community outreach, and data-sharing practices.

Next steps: LADOT will prepare the requested assessment and return to the council with recommended changes to permitting, contract language and community engagement information.