Acceptance of Cash by Brick-and-Mortar Businesses

The City of Newport Beach will require all brick-and-mortar businesses to accept payments in cash, with some exceptions.

Under Ordinance No. 2024-20 and NBMC Chapter 5.98, all brick-and-mortar businesses within the City are required to accept cash payments upon request from customers who are physically present at the business location. This ordinance is designed to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring that all residents and visitors can actively engage in the Newport Beach economy.

To give businesses adequate time to prepare, this requirement will begin on March 31, 2025.

What types of purchases and transactions are included?

All transactions involving the purchase of food and beverages, consumer goods and consumer services may be paid in cash if cash is offered by the customers.

What are the exceptions?

Brick-and-mortar businesses may decline to accept cash if:

• The currency is suspected counterfeit;
• The denomination is larger than $50;
• The transaction takes place online, by phone or mail;
• The transaction is handled through a pay station or vending machine.

What types of businesses must accept cash?

All Newport Beach businesses operating at a fixed, permanent physical location ("brick-and-mortar") that is open to the public for in person sales transactions; including:

• Restaurants and bars;
• Retail stores selling any consumer goods, merchandise, products, food, clothing or shoes;
• Consumer service businesses such as fitness, training, printing, pet care, nail care, haircuts, tailoring, dry cleaning, car wash, and shoe repair

What businesses or services may not accept cash?

The following businesses are not required to accept cash:

• Medical services (doctors, dentists, physical therapists, nurses);
• Services provided at a person's residence (construction, home repair, plumbing, cleaning, landscaping);
• Professional services (accountants, insurance agents, interior design, consultants, wealth management).

Please note: A brick-and-mortar business may not charge a fee or place any other condition on cash acceptance.

For any questions, contact the Finance Department at revenuehelp@newportbeachca.gov