Who must approve the final construction plans for a Lees Famous Recipe restaurant before construction starts?

According to the 2025 Lees Famous Recipe Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisor must approve all final construction plans before construction begins. The franchisee is responsible for retaining a licensed architect to prepare all required construction plans to suit the site and ensure the plans comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, building codes, permit requirements, lease requirements, and restrictions. The franchisee is also responsible for the cost of any modifications to the plans.

This means that while franchisees are responsible for creating the construction plans and ensuring they meet all local regulations, Lees Famous Recipe retains the right to review and approve these plans. This is a common practice in franchising, as it allows the franchisor to ensure that the restaurant's design and construction align with the brand's standards and image.

For a prospective Lees Famous Recipe franchisee, this implies that they will need to factor in the time required for the franchisor's plan review and approval process into their construction timeline. Any delays in obtaining approval could potentially push back the restaurant's opening date, which could impact revenue projections. Franchisees should maintain open communication with Lees Famous Recipe and promptly address any concerns or required modifications to the plans to avoid unnecessary delays.