Judge Blocks Waymo Autonomous Vehicle Charging Overnights in Santa Monica

A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge issued a preliminary injunction prohibiting Waymo LLC from operating two autonomous vehicle charging stations in Santa Monica between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Judge Bradley S. Phillips ruled that the facilities, located at 1222 and 1310 Broadway, create an unmitigated public nuisance due to noise, lights, and traffic that interfere with nearby residents' quality of life.

The ruling concludes a legal conflict that began in late 2025 after the Santa Monica City Council declared the sites a nuisance and Waymo refused to comply, resulting in opposing lawsuits. The court determined that while Waymo attempted to mitigate the disruptions, those efforts were not sufficiently successful. The judge noted that Waymo may continue its ride-sharing service using vehicles charged during daylight hours.

Waymo expressed disappointment, stating the restriction could hinder the provision of safe transportation during dangerous overnight hours. Mayor Caroline Torosis stated the ruling validates residents' concerns regarding their quality of life. A status conference is scheduled for October 23 to review potential remediation measures.