New California law allows dogs to dine on restaurant patio

Assemblymember MarikoYamada's Assembly Bill 1965, allowing dogs on restaurant patios, was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown last month. The bill will give restaurants the option to allow pet dogs in their outdoor seating areas under specified conditions unless a local ordinance determines otherwise.

"It will soon be legal to take your beagle with you to dinner," stated Assemblymember Yamada. "With Governor Brown's signature, restaurateurs in California will see more businesses catering to their customers and the canine companions they love. I wish everyone 'bone apptit'."

AB 1965 does not mandate that restaurants allow dogs on their patios, but makes the practice permissible as long as basic health standards and local ordinances are followed. Several Willits-area dining establishments have informally followed this rule for years.

Restaurant owners could make this decision without the threat of a citation or lawsuit, while protecting public health.

This law will become effective on Jan. 1, 2015.

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New California law allows dogs to dine on restaurant patio