ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – New zoning restrictions envisioned by St. Paul city leaders would limit drive-thru use for coffee shops and fast food restaurants in an effort to improve pedestrian safety and reduce traffic along popular corridors.

What we know

In a proposed city zoning code ordinance submitted to the St. Paul City Council, the construction of new drive-thru operations for a business would be prohibited within 300 feet of major transit stations and the downtown area. city.

Any new drive-thru would also have to be located on the side or rear of a building and at least 60 feet from residential properties. It couldn’t be between a public road and a building.

To reduce congestion, new drive-throughs should have “storage spaces” that reduce lines stretching into traffic: a minimum of six spaces for banks, credit unions and pharmacies; 12 stacking spaces for fast food; and 14 stacking spaces for cafes. Loudspeaker sound from a drive-thru lane “shall not be clearly audible…to unreasonably disturb the peace and quiet of adjoining residential properties.”

Businesses that already have a drive-thru would be required to offer walk-up windows or ATMs as alternatives, while products and services provided in a drive-thru window would also have to be provided inside the building or without elevator. However, mixed-use buildings could qualify for a variance through the city’s zoning board.

RELATED: Starbucks drive-thru in St. Paul creates traffic problems

An urban planning study carried out in March identified nearly 80 drive-thrus in Saint-Paul, mainly in restaurants and cafes, but also in banks and pharmacies. The study began by proposing restrictions in certain areas of the city, but discussions within committees led to more comprehensive restrictions.

The ordinance is supposed to “improve pedestrian safety, reduce noise and prevent car emissions.”

However, critics say the measures could limit options for customers and ultimately push businesses out of St. Paul and into nearby suburbs.

The St. Paul City Council will hear public comments on the proposals on Nov. 13 and vote on the plan later this year.

Restrictions in Minneapolis

In 2019, the Minneapolis City Council effectively banned new drive-thru facilities in fast-food restaurants, banks and other businesses – becoming the first city of its size in the United States to create such sweeping restrictions.

Supporters of the ordinance sought to improve public safety and focus on public transportation, while opponents argued the requirements were too burdensome on businesses and stifled new development.

The Minneapolis 2040 global plan – the city’s comprehensive housing and population development plan that faced several legal challenges – ultimately led the city to ban new drive-throughs and gas stations.

Notably, a Burger King on Nicollet Avenue remained vacant since the company closed the location and the city has not found a new suitor for the building which already has a drive-thru.