California, August 19, 2025
News Summary
California is on the verge of passing AB 671, a new legislation aimed at streamlining the restaurant permitting process. Supported by DoorDash, this bill is crucial for local restaurants that contribute significantly to the state’s economy. It proposes allowing establishments to open within 20 business days after application submission while also addressing existing restaurant operational improvements without delays. The bill emphasizes timely responses from local health and building departments to encourage a more favorable environment for restaurant businesses amidst ongoing economic recovery efforts.
California is on the verge of enacting a new piece of legislation, AB 671, that aims to simplify the restaurant permitting process, a move that has garnered the support of DoorDash. This initiative is crucial for local restaurants, which play a significant role in the state’s economy, employing one in ten workers and generating over $220 billion annually in sales. As the state has experienced a decline in restaurant employment since 2019, AB 671 seeks to mitigate the challenges faced by restaurant entrepreneurs, making California the state with the most complicated restaurant opening processes in the country.
The lengthy permitting processes that currently prevail are well known to increase operational costs and impede job creation within the restaurant sector. This legislation, introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, aims to streamline the permitting procedures drastically. If passed, the new regulations will allow restaurants to begin operations within 20 business days after submitting their applications. Additionally, existing restaurants looking to enhance their operations can expedite improvements, potentially without facing substantial permit delays.
AB 671 includes specific mandates for local health and building departments to ensure timely responses to permit applications. The bill stipulates that health departments must address applications within the designated 20 business days and respond to any denied applications within 10 business days. The goal of these measures is to reduce compliance costs and downtime for businesses, which is critical for supporting small establishments and retaining restaurant staff.
DoorDash has committed to uplifting local economies by advocating for reforms that favor restaurant entrepreneurs. According to the company’s Vice President of Global Public Policy, common-sense reforms are essential for stimulating job and business growth in California. The delivery service is actively mobilizing local merchants to rally behind AB 671 and has partnered with industry leaders to encourage its passage.
On a community level, restaurant owners have voiced their frustrations regarding the current permitting framework. Many have indicated that financial burdens stemming from permit delays significantly impact their ability to efficiently serve customers. Faster access to permits is essential according to local restaurant entrepreneurs who advocate for the passage of this legislation.
The introduction of AB 671 comes at a pivotal time when the restaurant industry is navigating through employment challenges and economic recovery. Ensuring that California remains an attractive destination for restaurant businesses is a priority that this legislation intends to address. By advocating for a streamlined permitting process, AB 671 aims to create a more favorable environment for the establishment and operation of restaurants, reinforcing their vital role in the state’s economic landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AB 671?
AB 671 is a proposed legislation in California aimed at streamlining the restaurant permitting process, allowing establishments to open within 20 business days after applying.
Why is AB 671 necessary?
The legislation is necessary to reduce the lengthy permitting processes which increase costs and hinder job creation in California’s restaurant industry.
How will AB 671 affect existing restaurants?
AB 671 will facilitate existing restaurants in making operational improvements without significant permit delays, enabling them to enhance their services more efficiently.
What is DoorDash’s role in AB 671?
DoorDash supports AB 671 and is advocating for its passage by mobilizing local restaurants and collaborating with industry leaders to promote the legislation.
Key Features of AB 671
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Streamlined Permitting Process | Allows restaurants to open within 20 business days post-application. |
| Response Timelines | Local health and building departments must respond within 20 business days for permits and 10 business days for denial responses. |
| Support for Existing Restaurants | Facilitates operational improvements without lengthy delays. |
| Focus on Economic Recovery | Aims to boost restaurant employment and economic contributions in California. |
| DoorDash Advocacy | Mobilizes support from local merchants and industry leaders for passage. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- DoorDash News
- Eater LA
- NRN
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Allergic Living
- Wikipedia: California
- Google Search: California restaurant legislation
- Google Scholar: California restaurant industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- Google News: California restaurants news
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles 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 the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
