Culver City has extended an emergency moratorium on new drive-thru restaurants for an additional 10 months and 15 days, a move that blocks the approval of a proposed In-N-Out Burger location. The city council voted 4-0 on Monday to extend the ban while planners work on an ordinance that could permanently prohibit new drive-thrus within the city limits.
The proposed In-N-Out restaurant on Sepulveda Boulevard, which would have been the city's first new drive-thru since 1997, is now on hold. The company had proposed a 3,890-square-foot restaurant with seating for 128 customers, a 61-space parking lot, and a drive-thru lane designed to accommodate 26 vehicles. In-N-Out argued the project would provide economic benefits through jobs and tax revenue, and serve as a late-night dining option for essential workers.
However, many residents voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about increased traffic, air pollution from idling vehicles, and safety risks for pedestrians. Residents described drive-thrus as "pollution monsters" and questioned the need for another one when delivery and pickup options are widely available. Some pointed to existing air quality issues and their link to serious health problems.
One resident, Knox Gagnon, spoke in favor of the project, arguing that fears were overblown and that the proposed drive-thru design would prevent it from backing up onto streets. He also noted the location's accessibility by public transit, bicycle, and on foot.
Councilmember Albert Vera stated that while he initially supported the In-N-Out proposal, hearing from the community changed his mind. Mayor Freddy Puza emphasized that the vote was about more than just one fast-food chain, aligning with the city's General Plan 2045 goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and promoting walking, biking, and public transit. He referenced other California cities like Santa Barbara and South Pasadena that have prohibited new drive-thrus.
Vice Mayor Bubba Fish indicated that the extended moratorium is a step toward a permanent ordinance. The proposal will now move to the Planning Commission for consideration of a permanent ban, after which it will return to the City Council for a final vote. If the ordinance is approved, existing drive-thrus in Culver City would remain operational, but no new ones would be permitted.