Does Chicken Guy claim copyright protection in architectural plans?
Chicken_Guy Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall submit proposed construction plans, specifications and drawings for the Franchised Restaurant ("Plans") to Chicken Guy and shall, upon Chicken Guy's request, submit all revised or "as built" Plans during the course of such construction.
Chicken Guy will approve or refuse to approve the Plans and notify Franchisee within 14 days after Chicken Guy receives the Plans. (Chicken Guy's approval shall not be unreasonably withheld.) Once Chicken Guy has approved the Plans, no substantial change shall be made to the Plans without the prior approval of Chicken Guy, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
If, in the course of construction, any such change in the Plans is contemplated, Chicken Guy's approval must first be obtained before proceeding.
Chicken Guy shall approve or reject Plan changes within 10 business days after receipt.
If Chicken Guy does not respond within that time period, Chicken Guy shall be deemed to have rejected approval of the Plans.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD pages 38–39)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
Based on the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, it is not explicitly stated whether Chicken Guy claims copyright protection in architectural plans. However, the FDD does state that franchisees must submit proposed construction plans, specifications, and drawings for the franchised restaurant to Chicken Guy for approval. Chicken Guy retains the right to approve or reject these plans, and no substantial changes can be made without prior approval.
This process allows Chicken Guy to maintain uniformity and brand standards across all franchise locations. While the FDD doesn't use the term "copyright," the level of control Chicken Guy exerts over the plans suggests they have a vested interest in protecting their designs. Franchisees are required to use registered architects and engineers, implying a need for professional standards in the creation of these plans.
Prospective franchisees should clarify with Chicken Guy whether there are any specific clauses related to intellectual property or copyright protection of the architectural plans. Understanding the ownership and usage rights of these plans is crucial before entering into a franchise agreement. It would be prudent to discuss this with a franchise attorney to fully understand the implications.