Panel recommends ban on delivery robots on sidewalks, citing pedestrian safety

The Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee voted to send to the full Board an ordinance proposed by Supervisor Yee that would prohibit the operation of autonomous delivery vehicles on sidewalks and public rights of way within the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works and add administrative or criminal penalties for unlawful operation.

Sponsor Supervisor Aaron Yee framed the measure as a pedestrian‑safety and accessibility issue in a dense, walkable city. Yee said sidewalks are a limited public resource that must prioritize people—particularly seniors, people with disabilities and families with strollers—and urged a cautious approach to permitting any motorized devices that could encroach on pedestrian space.

Public comment ran for many hours and was sharply divided. Disability and senior‑advocacy groups, Walk San Francisco, Vision Zero advocates and neighborhood associations described narrow sidewalks, curb cuts and crowded commercial corridors and urged a ban to prevent obstacles and safety risks. Representatives of local businesses and industry—Marble Robotics, Starship Technologies, Postmates and other technology companies—argued the devices can reduce vehicle trips, cut emissions, create local jobs and be operated with human monitoring and data‑sharing commitments. Labor groups, including Teamsters Joint Council 7, urged a regulatory approach that preserves workers’ rights and bargaining leverage.

Committee members discussed competing goals: protecting walkability and the city’s vulnerable residents, while also considering jobs, local innovation and potential climate benefits. In a roll‑call vote the committee approved forwarding the ordinance with a positive recommendation: Vice Chair Sheehy voted "no," and Supervisors Feuer and Ronan voted "yes" (2–1). The item will now go to the full Board for further consideration and potential amendment.

Quotes used in the debate included Supervisor Yee’s line that framed the measure: “Sidewalks are for people,” and companies said they were willing to work on data‑sharing and operational constraints if the city preferred regulation rather than an outright ban.

Next steps: the ordinance will be scheduled for a Board hearing where opponents and proponents are likely to negotiate rules on pilot programs, data reporting and labor protections.