Gig and app-based drivers need free short-term parking

New Westminster, B.C. – April 22, 2021 – UFCW 1518 has called on BC municipalities to grant free short-term parking to app-based delivery drivers while they work. The union’s request is made in partnership with drivers for Uber Eats, DoorDash, and other platforms who make a living bringing food and other supplies to people during COVID-19.

These workers have told UFCW 1518 that they face significant challenges finding free parking when making deliveries. The drivers’ pay depends on how quickly they can make their deliveries, and expensive parking tickets undercut their already precarious income.

UFCW 1518 President Kim Novak sent a letter to the City Mayors of Vancouver, Victoria, New Westminster, Burnaby and Kelowna asking them to explore options for granting free short-term parking to app-based delivery drivers while they work, so they avoid receiving tickets or resorting to double-parking, which can be unsafe for the drivers and the public.

“I intentionally avoid taking orders in areas with paid parking because I’m worried about parking tickets I can’t afford,” said Kelowna DoorDash driver, Laura. “It’s always hard to find parking spaces close to restaurants, so you either have to risk it and park illegally, or park further away and waste time walking, which may make your delivery late.”

UFCW 1518 represents more than 25,000 members working in the community health, hospitality, retail, cannabis, industrial, and professional sectors across British Columbia.