New York restaurants may allow companion dogs in outdoor dining areas, provided they follow these rules:
- The restaurant owner must choose to allow dogs in the outdoor area and can set additional rules.
- Dogs must enter the outdoor dining area from a separate entrance and cannot pass through the restaurant itself.
- Food and drinks for dogs must be served in single-use containers, and dogs are not allowed on chairs, benches, or other furniture.
- Restaurant staff are not allowed to have direct contact with the dogs while on duty. If contact does occur, they must wash their hands immediately.
- The outdoor area must be kept clean, and surfaces contaminated by dog waste must be cleaned and sanitized.
- Signs must be posted indicating that companion dogs are permitted and that these rules do not apply to service animals.
Companion dog is defined as “a domesticated dog accompanying an individual or owner for the purpose of companionship or convenience of such individual or owner, and shall not include guide, hearing or service dogs.”
Posting Requirement
New York restaurants that allow dogs in all or part of outside dining areas must display this poster at or near the entrance of the establishment. (NY PHL § 1352-e)
