Future drive-thrus now banned from this Northern California city’s historic downtown. Here’s why

City officials last week took steps to permanently ban drive-thru restaurants from downtown Lincoln.

According to a new city ordinance adopted Nov. 14, future drive-thru restaurants are prohibited from building in the historic downtown area of the Placer County city.

The ordinance does not affect existing drive-thru restaurants.

City Council members adopted the ordinance after members of the Planning Commission adopted a resolution recommending the change in August.

“Drive-thru facilities are not an appropriate or compatible land use for the downtown,” the resolution said.

Commissioners said drive-thru businesses weren’t compatible with the small lot spaces in the downtown area, making them likely to cause long lines and traffic jams. Furthermore, they would “detract from the historical fabric of downtown.”

The decision comes as Lincoln attempts to revitalize its downtown, making it more attractive for pedestrians and families. As it stands now, the area lacks restaurants, retail and recreation hubs, according to meeting documents, and there is an overabundance of auto repair shops in the area.

“I’m 100% in agreement with this and I’m ready to support it,” Councilwoman Holly Andreatta said during the meeting.

Council members Bill Lauritsen, Ben Brown and Andreatta voted to adopt the ordinance. Mayor Paul Joiner and Councilman Dan Karleskint were absent from the meeting.

This story was originally published November 22, 2023 at 11:55 AM.