AL SB299

Food service establishments may allow pet dogs in outdoor dining areas if the owner files a waiver with the State Health Department and meets specified conditions.

Required conditions include a separate outdoor entrance, prominent signage, pet dogs kept on leash or in carriers, areas kept 12 feet from bars, employees refilling beverages from pitchers, and contaminated surfaces properly cleaned and sanitized.

Pet dogs are prohibited from sitting on chairs or furniture, food preparation areas, and indoor dining spaces; employees are forbidden from direct contact with dogs while on duty.

Service dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities and dogs controlled by uniformed law enforcement officers are excepted from restrictions, but emotional support animals are explicitly prohibited from food service establishments.

State or local health departments cannot prohibit serving wine or beer at food service establishments allowing pet dogs or at dog parks that otherwise meet licensing requirements; the act becomes effective three months after passage.