What is prohibited regarding site preparation or construction for a Carls Jr. restaurant before plan approval?
Carls_Jr Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee is prohibited from beginning site preparation or construction prior to receiving written notification from CJR that it has approved the Plans. All construction must be in accordance with Plans approved by CJR and must comply in all respects with applicable laws, ordinances and local rules and regulations. The Franchised Restaurant may not open if construction has not been performed in substantial compliance with Plans approved by CJR, and this Agreement may be terminated if such non-compliance is not cured within a commercially reasonable amount of time. CJR may furnish guidance to Franchisee in developing the Franchised Restaurant and may periodically inspect the premises during its development.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 75–76)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee is not allowed to begin any site preparation or construction on the restaurant location until they have received written notification from Carls Jr. that the construction plans have been approved.
Carls Jr. requires franchisees to submit proposed construction plans, specifications, and drawings for the franchised restaurant. Carls Jr. will review these plans and notify the franchisee of their approval status within 30 days of receipt, although this period may be extended at Carls Jr.'s discretion. Once the plans are approved, the franchisee must sign each page to acknowledge their approval and obligation to comply with them. No substantial changes can be made to the plans without prior approval from Carls Jr., and any contemplated changes during construction must be approved before proceeding.
This requirement ensures that all Carls Jr. restaurants adhere to the brand's standards and specifications, maintaining uniformity and quality across all locations. Failure to comply with approved plans can prevent the restaurant from opening and may lead to termination of the franchise agreement if the non-compliance is not resolved within a reasonable timeframe. Carls Jr. may also provide guidance during the restaurant's development and conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance.