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As Long Beach considers changes to food delivery service fee caps, the cost and convenience of on-demand meals hangs in the balance.Long Beach Today
The Long Beach City Council is considering modifying the existing 15% cap on fees charged by third-party food delivery platforms. The proposed ordinance would repeal the current emergency ordinance and allow delivery companies to charge additional fees for services beyond basic delivery, while maintaining the 15% cap for core delivery and listing services.
Why it matters
The changes could lead to increased delivery fees or service charges for Long Beach residents, depending on the specifics of the ordinance and the choices made by local restaurants. The move comes as food delivery services have become more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The details
The proposed ordinance would repeal the existing emergency ordinance adopted in 2021 that capped third-party delivery fees at 15% of the purchase price. The new legislation would continue to regulate third-party food delivery services by maintaining the 15% cap for basic delivery and listing services, but would allow businesses to opt into additional services from delivery platforms for additional fees. Delivery companies would be required to provide clear definitions for core delivery services, delivery fees, and allowable charges for additional services.
The Long Beach City Council will consider the proposed ordinance at its April 21, 2026 meeting.If approved by the Council, the legislation would take effect 31 days after being signed by the mayor.
The players
Long Beach City Council
The governing body of the city of Long Beach, California that is considering the proposed changes to food delivery service fee caps.
Third-party food delivery platforms
Companies that provide food delivery services to restaurants and consumers in Long Beach, which would be impacted by the proposed changes to fee caps.
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What’s next
If approved, the Long Beach City Council will need to work with delivery platforms and restaurants to implement the new fee structure and definitions for core services and additional charges.
The takeaway
The proposed changes to food delivery service fee caps in Long Beach aim to balance the needs of restaurants, delivery platforms, and consumers as the industry continues to evolve. The outcome could impact the cost and availability of food delivery options for Long Beach residents.