Following the development of several major projects in the 1990s, including LEGOLAND California, Costco (Carlsbad’s first “big box” store), and what is today known as Carlsbad Premium Outlets, residents became increasingly concerned about protecting Carlsbad’s community character and quality of life.
To address those concerns, as well as worries about traffic congestion, traffic safety and community aesthetics, in 1997 the City Council directed staff to study the issue. In 1998, after a new drive-thru restaurant was approved near Costco and interest was raised on other potential locations, the City Council passed a ban on new drive-thru restaurants. As a result, today Carlsbad has 12 drive-thrus — one fewer than the 13 approved when the ban went into effect.
Given the amount of time that has passed and renewed interest in the issue, in May 2024, the City Council asked staff to develop options for future regulation of drive-thru establishments. Community input was gathered on options, which were then presented to the City Council on April 29, 2025.
