Delivery robots disrupt Los Angeles sidewalks and pedestrian traffic
Autonomous delivery robots from Serve Robotics and Coco Robotics have expanded rapidly across Los Angeles, reportedly causing pedestrian congestion, obstruction of foot traffic, and damage to infrastructure such as bus shelters. The expansion has prompted neighboring jurisdictions including Glendale and Chicago to consider restricting their deployment.
What happened
As of May 2026, Serve Robotics has deployed 500 delivery robots across 40 neighborhoods in Los Angeles, up from two neighborhoods in 2023, while Coco Robotics operates about 300 robots across the city.
The robots obstruct pedestrian traffic and sidewalk congestion, particularly in areas with outdoor seating such as Silverlake, and have been reported to accidentally damage infrastructure such as bus shelter glass.
Reported impact
Residents and workers described the robots as disruptive and a nuisance, blocking foot traffic and congestion in areas with outdoor dining and entertainment venues.
The expansion has reduced employment opportunities for delivery drivers and created obstacles for pedestrians in a region already known for poor walkability.
Index analysis
The deployment of autonomous delivery robots without adequate safety or traffic management measures has created public safety and accessibility concerns on LA sidewalks.
Glendale is considering a moratorium on the robots, and Chicago has limited their expansion, indicating regulatory concern about the impact of autonomous delivery systems on public spaces.
Governance controls
No governance controls or safety measures are documented in the available information regarding how the robots navigate pedestrian areas or mitigate disruption and safety risks.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.