What aspects are excluded from Del Taco's approval of the preliminary plans and specifications submitted by the franchisee?
Del_Taco Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisee shall employ a qualified, licensed architect or engineer who is acceptable to Del Taco to prepare, for Del Taco's approval, preliminary plans and specifications for site improvement and construction of the Restaurant based upon the site construction package furnished by Del Taco or its designee pursuant to Section 4.1, and as may otherwise be authorized by Del Taco due to the particularities of the site of the proposed location. Del Taco's approval shall be limited to conformance with Del Taco's standard image specifications and layout and shall not relate to Franchisee's obligations with respect to any federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations including the applicable provisions of the ADA regarding the construction, design and operation of the Restaurant, which subjects shall be Franchisee's sole responsibility.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD pages 58–59)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Del Taco's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, when a franchisee submits preliminary plans and specifications for site improvement and construction, Del Taco's approval is limited to ensuring that these plans conform to Del Taco's standard image specifications and layout.
Del Taco's approval specifically does not extend to the franchisee's obligations regarding federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerning the construction, design, and operation of the restaurant.
Ultimately, it is the franchisee's sole responsibility to ensure that the restaurant complies with all applicable laws and regulations, not Del Taco's. This means the franchisee bears the risk and cost associated with ensuring full compliance with all legal requirements, highlighting the importance of engaging qualified professionals to navigate these complexities.