Local Minimum Wage

Beginning January 1, 2021, employers who are subject to the East Palo Alto Business License Tax OR who maintain a facility in East Palo Alto must pay to each employee who performs at least two (2) hours of work per week in East Palo Alto, minimum wages not less than $15.00 per hour.

The minimum wage requirement set forth in the East Palo Alto Minimum Wage Ordinance applies to adult AND minor employees who work two (2) or more hours per week (tips not included). Beginning January 1, 2022, and annually thereafter, the City will adjust the minimum wage based on the Regional Consumer Price Index.

Under the Ordinance, employees who assert their rights to receive the City’s minimum wage are protected from retaliation. Employees may file a civil lawsuit against their employers for any violation of the Ordinance or may file a complaint with the Office of Economic Development. The City will investigate possible violations and will require access to payroll records. The City will enforce violations of the minimum wage ordinance by ordering reinstatement of employees, payment of back wages unlawfully withheld and penalties.

What does this mean for EMPLOYERS?

Employers must post the Minimum Wage Official Notice in the workplace, informing employees of the rate and their rights. Employers must document all hours worked by employees and keep records for 3 years. It is unlawful to discriminate or take adverse action against any person in retaliation for exercising their rights protected under the Ordinance.

Updates to the Minimum Wage

• On January 1, 2024, the adjusted Local Minimum Wage will increase to $17.00 per hour for all employers in the City of East Palo Alto. The 2024 notice is available below and employers should be prepared to post it before taking effect in the new year. 

• On November 7, 2023, City staff corrected a rounding error found within the Local Minimum Wage calculations. Please see linked clarification staff report: November 7, 2023 Staff Report. The notices linked below are the corrected notices. 

Employers should download and post the required notice below: