New Illinois Law Allows Pets in Outdoor Restaurants

People who travel to Europe know that it is not unusual to see dogs in outdoor dining establishments. People who live in the cities of Europe seem to take their pets with them where ever they go. I have seen dogs taken to restaurants in the basket of a bicycle, riding in a paper shopping bag and on leashes.

As the warm weather of summer approaches, people of Chicago may be able to dine like Europeans: Al fresco, with their dogs by their sides. Certain restaurants can allow dogs in pet friendly outdoor areas.

A new law that became effective on January 1, 2008, now allows the people of Illinois to enjoy the pleasure of their canine companion's company at outdoor restaurants. According to the legislation, on the State of Illinois website, "municipalities with a population of 1,000,000 or more, may, by ordinance, authorize the presence of companion dogs in outdoor restaurants where food is served."

This recently passed legislation would allow cities with populations over one million people, such as Chicago, the right to enact ordinances allowing dogs to dine in the outdoor sections of restaurants.

The legislation proceeds to stipulate that dogs cannot be in the food preparation areas and that they shall not be allowed into the interior of the restaurants.

This new legislation allows "companion dogs," meaning dogs other that service dogs that assist handicapped people. Service dogs are already covered by the Americans With Disabilities Act. The ADA guidelines stipulate that people with disabilities are allowed to bring service animals into businesses that serve the public.

The City of Chicago passed the ordinance in September, 2007. Restaurants can allow dogs as a voluntary measure. Restaurants that wish to allow dogs need to get a supplementary permit to do so. Restaurants must agree to comply with requirements. Following is a brief recap of the requirements.

Dogs shall be permitted in dog-friendly area only.
Dogs must be leashed at all times.
A sign must be posted, setting forth the rules and regulations.
The Supplemental License shall be posted next to the retail establishment license.
Furniture and fixtures in the dog friendly area should consist of hard surfaces that can be washed and sanitized.
Dogs shall not have contact with food or food contact surfaces.

It is highly recommended that you call restaurants ahead of time to make sure that their outdoor eating area is pet-friendly.

As the warm weather approaches, this new legislation will allow people to enjoy the company of their dogs when dining Al fresco .Restaurants that allow dogs may benefit by the enjoyments that people have of their pets. People will now be able to walk their dogs into pet friendly areas when they want to take a break from walking the dog.

Bon Appetite!

Read Pet Friendly Hotels Downtown Chicago here
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Read Taking Care of Your Dog in Cold Weather here.
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Read Ten Tips for Safe Travel With Your Dog here.