What certificates are required for a Noodles & Company franchisee to open their restaurant?
Noodles_Company Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
- 3.04 Right to Open. You shall be permitted to open the Restaurant when all of the following conditions have been met:
- (f) Certificates. You have obtained a certificate of occupancy and any other required health, safety or fire department certificates.
- (c) Architect Certification. Your registered architect has certified to Noodles & Company in writing that the Noodles & Company Restaurant was constructed substantially in accordance with the plans consented to by Noodles & Company.
Source: Item 23 — RECEIPT (FDD pages 99–350)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Noodles & Company's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must obtain a certificate of occupancy, as well as any other required health, safety, or fire department certificates before opening their restaurant. Additionally, a registered architect must certify in writing that the Noodles & Company restaurant was constructed substantially in accordance with the plans consented to by Noodles & Company.
Beyond these specific certificates, the franchisee must ensure compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations related to the restaurant's operation. This includes maintaining all required licenses, permits, and certificates in their name. If the restaurant plans to sell beer and wine, compliance with regulations pertaining to alcohol sales is also mandatory.
The franchisee is obligated to notify Noodles & Company immediately upon the commencement of any legal or administrative action or the issuance of any order from a court or governmental agency that could adversely affect the restaurant's operation or financial condition. They must also report any notice of violation or alleged violation of any law, ordinance, or regulation, including those related to health, sanitation, or liquor license violations.