UFCW 1518 is calling on BC municipalities to grant free short-term parking to app-based delivery drivers while they work. The 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. These 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 dangerous for the drivers and the public.

The letter also went to Minister of Municipal Affairs Josie Osborne, Minister of Transportation Rob Fleming, Minister of Labour Harry Bains, and Parliamentary Secretary for the New Economy Adam Walker.

“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 (last name withheld). “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 is speaking out with app-based delivery workers who lack a union of their own in BC. This request ensures that delivery workers can continue to serve their communities by linking people and businesses without undercutting their earnings. Taking action to protect app-based delivery drivers from excessive parking expenses and fees can make a real difference in these drivers’ lives.

For more information on how gig and contract workers are fighting for fairness in the gig economy, visit us by clicking here.