County allows dogs in outdoor areas of restaurants

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If you’ve wished you could bring your dog along with you when you’re dining outdoors at a restaurant in Marion County, now you can.

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners adopted an ordinance on Sept. 21 to allow dogs in some designated outdoor areas of restaurants in the unincorporated parts of the county. This move follows a similar ordinance passed by the city of Ocala in 2021 allowing dogs outside permitted establishments within the city.

“The state Division of Hotels and Restaurants regulations prohibit animals in restaurants,” said Assistant County Attorney Russell Ward. “However, state law authorizes local governments to amend their land development code to create a permit process to allow restaurants to have dogs in outdoor areas.”

The rules for service animals will remain the same, as they must be allowed to accompany a person with a disability in any establishment that serves the public, under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Restaurant owners must apply for a permit with the county administrator to have a designated dog-friendly area. Another restaurant official may apply for a permit, but only with written consent from the establishment’s owner.

The application fee is $75 but can be waived under certain circumstances.

All restaurant staff will be required to wash their hands after any contact with dogs. Patrons who bring dogs must be advised to wash their hands. Dogs cannot come into contact with dishes, food or any serving items. Dogs must never go inside the restaurant, must be kept on a leash at all times and must be kept off the tables and chairs, according to the ordinance.

An 8 1/2 by 12-inch sign will be displayed in the areas of restaurants that allow dogs so all patrons are aware they may encounter patrons with dogs outside. A sign of the same size will also be required to remind employees of the rules associated with having dogs in outdoor dining areas, according to the ordinance.