Personal Delivery Devices (PDDs) are small, self-propelled rolling robots that offer door-to-door delivery services. They typically operate on sidewalks, use crosswalks and are monitored remotely by humans. Allowed to operate in Arlington by the state's Code of Virginia, PDDs using the public right-of-way are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as pedestrians.
Austin, Texas-based robotic company Avride is expected to begin an Arlington pilot phase in April 2026, using one or two machines to map out County sidewalks for food delivery within a 2-mile radius in the high-density Rosslyn-Ballston corridor. The initial phase is expected to last approximately two weeks. PDD safety features are to include lights, brakes, audible alerts and QR code decals for public feedback.
Arlington County has no regulatory control over PDDs (as of April 2026). Arlington may not prohibit PDDs but can adopt safety ordinances that could include, for example, no operation near hospitals and firehouses.