What certificates must a Carls Jr. franchisee obtain before opening the franchised restaurant?

According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and licenses before opening their restaurant. This includes building, utility, sign, health, sanitation, and business permits and licenses applicable to the franchised restaurant. Securing these approvals is a prerequisite for commencing operations.

This requirement places the onus on the franchisee to navigate local regulations and ensure full compliance. The franchisee must cover all expenses associated with obtaining these permits and licenses. Failure to secure the required permits and licenses could delay the restaurant opening or even prevent it entirely, leading to potential financial losses for the franchisee.

It is typical in the franchise industry for franchisees to handle local permitting, as they are best positioned to understand and comply with local requirements. Prospective Carls Jr. franchisees should thoroughly research the specific permit and license requirements in their chosen location and factor these costs and timelines into their business plan. They should also maintain meticulous records of all applications and approvals to demonstrate compliance.