Palm Springs Planning Commission Approves Chick-fil-A Drive-Thru with Conditions

A Chick-fil-A may soon be coming to the west end of the Coachella Valley. On Tuesday night, the Palm Springs Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit that would allow the popular fast food chain to open a drive-thru location in the Springs Shopping Center on Ramon Road.

The proposal first appeared before the commission in December 2024 but was delayed to allow the applicant—Chick-fil-A—more time to provide detailed traffic analysis. That data was presented during this week’s meeting, and after extended discussion, the commission gave the project the green light with several conditions.

Among the key changes: the number of drive-thru lanes will be reduced from three to two, a revised building design is required, and enhanced pedestrian safety measures must be implemented. The commission also asked for better signage to guide vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists through the shopping center, as well as landscaping upgrades—including replacing dead trees.

The proposed location sits near the south end of the Springs Shopping Center, adjacent to Ramon Road.

While the approval marks a major milestone, the project still faces further scrutiny. The city's Architectural Review Committee must now evaluate the final building and landscape design.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions from residents, with some voicing concerns over Chick-fil-A’s past political controversies and environmental practices. Still, planning officials say their focus is on land use and ensuring developments align with city guidelines.

As the project moves forward, it will be up to Palm Springs residents to decide whether to support the restaurant once it opens.

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