Ohio Chick-fil-A adopts controversial chaperone policy

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) – Teens looking to eat at one busy Chick-fil-A location in Ohio will need an adult to supervise – a new policy that has created some backlash.

The Chick-fil-A location at 480 E. Stroop Road in Kettering announced the policy on social media August 13, writing, “With school starting, we wanted to make sure that everyone is aware of our Teen Chaperone Policy.”

The restaurant added that the goal is “to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all guests.”

According to the location, patrons 17 years old or younger must be accompanied by someone over 21 during their visit. Diners 17 or younger without an adult chaperone may be asked to leave.

“We are grateful for your support and want to make sure Chick-fil-A Kettering is a safe and enjoyable place for everyone,” said Chick-fil-A Kettering.

The new policy isn’t going over well with everyone, however.

“Pretty sad that the good kids are getting punished.. how about instead of a chaperone policy, they say that they have the right to remove anybody from their property that is being disruptive,” one Facebook user wrote, while other parents complained that their 18- or 19-year-old children wouldn’t be able to bring siblings to eat.

Another replied to the restaurant’s Facebook post, writing:

“I consider myself a strong Christian, but even so, if it was within my power, I would pull your franchise in the absence of a sincere apology to all your customers. This is from a 71-year-old.”

Town & Country Kettering, the shopping mall behind the fast-food eatery, has had an updated teen chaperone policy since 2022.