California Cities Consider Ending Drive-Thru Dining

In California, the future of drive-thru dining might be in jeopardy. Officials in Culver City are weighing a citywide prohibition on new drive-thrus, largely in response to community concerns surrounding a new In-N-Out project. Residents argue that the addition could exacerbate traffic, diminish air quality, and pose risks to pedestrians and cyclists.

Earlier, the City Council implemented a 45-day moratorium halting new drive-thru permits and subsequently, staff drafted a proposal for an outright ban.

If this proposal goes through, it would not impact the eight existing drive-thrus in the city, but would apply to any new developments. This decision comes as In-N-Out aims to establish its first drive-thru in Culver City since 1997.

The planned location would feature 61 parking spaces and a drive-thru lane capable of accommodating 26 vehicles, which has drawn criticism. Opponents have labeled it a “mega-drive-through,” claiming it would congest neighborhood streets and contradict efforts to create more pedestrian- and bike-friendly areas.

“Crowding is bound to happen, and development is inevitable,” noted Vanessa Martin, a resident advocating for the ban. “We’re looking to be proactive and make smart choices.”

Adding to the conversation, City Councilwoman Bubba Fish remarked that drive-thrus are counterproductive to the vision of safer, walkable streets that the city aspires to create.

However, some leaders from the restaurant industry have cautioned that the ban could harm fast-food establishments and inconvenience customers. Giotto Condi, president of the California Restaurant Association, called the ban “short-sighted.”

Condi further argued that the measure essentially restricts quick-service restaurants without explicitly stating so. Nationally, a significant 70% of fast food sales come through drive-thru services.

Critics also contend that drive-thrus cater to individuals with disabilities, parents with young children, and anyone who may find it difficult to enter physical establishments.

While Fish understands those concerns, she believes there are alternative ways to enhance access, such as implementing walk-up windows and increasing handicap parking.

It’s worth noting that banning drive-thrus isn’t a rare occurrence in California. Culver City already prohibits them in its downtown area, while cities like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo have had similar bans for years.

The proposed ordinance will be reviewed by the Planning Commission before being presented to the City Council for a final vote.