The unusual color choice wasn’t a marketing stunt. Sedona enforces strict building codes to preserve the harmony of its landscapes. When McDonald’s planned to open a location in 1993, city officials worried that the traditional gold would clash sharply with the surrounding red rock scenery.
Yellow, which stands out brightly in urban settings, was viewed as too disruptive for Sedona’s earthy palette. Local leaders wanted to prevent any commercial feature from overshadowing the dramatic natural views that define the community.
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