Should Encinitas Invite In-N-Out? Fast-Food Outlet Is on Panel’s Plate

Are you a fan of animal-style fries at In-N-Out? Or worried about yet another fast-food traffic jam?

Encinitas residents are invited to attend Thursday’s public hearing to discuss the possible opening of an In-N-Out at 130 Calle Magdalena.

The city Planning Commission will consider giving the company a major-use permit, design review permit and a coastal development permit.

The company hopes to demolish the Del Taco, which now sits at the location, and take over parcels at 305 Encinitas Blvd. and 325 Encinitas Blvd., according to the public notice.

Carl Van Fleet, vice president of planning and development, said the company can determine an estimated opening date once construction begins. However, it usually takes about “four to five months to build a new restaurant,” he says.

If Encinitas approves an In-N-Out, the restaurant will hire about 50 to 60 people and be the region’s 18th location.

The Planning Commission will meet at 6 p.m. at the council chambers at 505 S. Vulcan Ave.