Costa Mesa, California, is on track to pass strict new rules targeting self-checkout lanes in local stores, a move meant to fight retail theft but one that’s drawing backlash from grocers. Under the ordinance, businesses would be required to assign at least one employee to every three self-checkout stations and enforce a 15-item limit per customer. Noncompliance could result in fines of up to $1,000.
The city council narrowly approved the measure in a 3-2 vote on January 20, with a final vote still needed. If enacted, it would affect nearly a dozen stores operating close to 60 self-checkout units citywide.
Supporters of the law argue that unchecked self-checkout systems have created unsafe environments for both workers and customers by fueling theft. The proposed ordinance states that these measures aim to address “hostile and unsafe working conditions” created by the rise in retail crime.
But critics say the rule will punish businesses and inconvenience shoppers. Nate Rose, spokesperson for the California Grocers Association, slammed the plan, saying it “will make life harder for thousands of grocery shoppers who rely on its convenience.” He also warned it could drive up operational costs for grocers already facing razor-thin margins.
Retailers in other parts of California have also scaled back their use of self-checkout due to theft. Safeway closed self-checkout lanes at several Bay Area locations, and Dollar General removed them from over 12,000 stores nationwide. Kroger has turned to AI-powered surveillance as an alternative.
Costa Mesa’s proposed ordinance is part of a broader trend in California and across the U.S. where cities and businesses are rethinking self-checkout amid rising theft and safety concerns. A final decision is expected after a second reading of the ordinance.
