California, August 19, 2025
News Summary
California is considering AB 671, legislation aimed at simplifying the restaurant permitting process. Supported by DoorDash, the initiative would allow restaurants to open within 20 business days after applying for permits. This change aims to reduce operational costs and boost job creation in the restaurant industry, which is vital to California’s economy. Under the proposed law, local health and building departments must respond promptly to address permit applications, encouraging quicker openings and operational improvements. Local entrepreneurs hope this will revitalize the sector following employment declines since 2019.
California is currently considering new legislation, known as AB 671, which seeks to streamline the permitting process for opening and operating restaurants. The initiative is backed by DoorDash, which recognizes the crucial role local eateries play in the state’s economy. Currently, one in ten California workers is employed in the restaurant sector, which generates over $220 billion in annual sales. However, since 2019, the state has experienced a decline in restaurant employment, placing it among the most difficult states in the nation for restaurateurs to launch and maintain their businesses due to stringent regulations.
The lengthy and complex permitting processes that California requires often increase operational costs and inhibit job creation within the restaurant industry. AB 671, introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, aims to address these challenges by allowing restaurants to open their doors within 20 business days after submitting permit applications. Additionally, it facilitates existing restaurants in making necessary operational improvements without facing significant delays in permit approval.
The proposed legislation includes mandates for local health and building departments to respond promptly to permit applications and rectify any deficiencies within clear timeframes: 20 business days for processing permits and 10 business days for addressing denied applications. By reducing downtime and compliance costs, AB 671 aims to strengthen small businesses and retain restaurant employees.
DoorDash has expressed its commitment to uplifting local economies through sensible reforms that benefit restaurant entrepreneurs. The company stresses that common-sense changes are essential for fostering job and business growth in the restaurant sector. The advocacy for AB 671 has seen DoorDash rallying merchants across California, highlighting the importance of this legislation for the future of the restaurant industry.
A local restaurant owner has indicated that the financial strain caused by prolonged permit delays has a significant impact on their ability to serve customers effectively. She emphasizes the need for swifter access to permits to improve efficiency and better meet customer demands. DoorDash’s partnership with industry leaders underscores a collective effort to support AB 671 and ensure that California remains a desirable location for restaurant businesses.
As the state grapples with the aftermath of employment losses in the restaurant sector, the passage of AB 671 could mark a pivotal moment for future growth, potentially revitalizing job opportunities and enhancing the overall health of California’s economy.
Key Features of AB 671
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Streamlined Permitting Process | Restaurants can open within 20 business days after application submission. |
| Improvement Approval | Facilitates existing restaurants to make operational changes without major delays. |
| Response Time Mandates | Local health and building departments must address permit applications within 20 days and respond to denials within 10 days. |
| Support for Small Businesses | Aims to reduce compliance costs and downtime, helping to maintain restaurant staff employment. |
FAQ
What is AB 671?
AB 671 is a proposed legislation in California aimed at streamlining the permitting process for restaurants to facilitate quicker openings and operational changes.
Who introduced AB 671?
Assemblymember Buffy Wicks introduced AB 671.
How long will it take for restaurants to receive permits under AB 671?
Under AB 671, restaurants will be able to open within 20 business days after submitting their permit applications.
Why is DoorDash supporting AB 671?
DoorDash is advocating for AB 671 to promote sensible reforms that support restaurant entrepreneurs and contribute to local economic growth.
What impact does the lengthy permitting process have on restaurants?
Long permitting processes increase operational costs and hinder job creation, posing significant challenges for restaurant entrepreneurs.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- DoorDash News: Smart Reforms Help CA Restaurants
- Eater: New 2025 California Restaurant & Bar Laws Explained
- NRN: Restaurant Surcharges and California Junk Fee Law
- Allergic Living: Support California’s ADDE Act for Allergy Labels
- ABC10: California’s Effort for Allergy Listings on Menus
- Wikipedia: Restaurant
- Google Search: California restaurant legislation
- Google Scholar: California restaurant laws
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- Google News: California restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
