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Council gives first reading to ordinance allowing dogs on restaurant patios
Summary
Council held the first reading of an ordinance (based on Minn. Stat. 157.175) that would permit, on an opt-in basis, dogs on patios that meet state criteria; the first reading passed 3-0 and a second reading will be scheduled for final adoption.
Council members gave the ordinance its first reading to allow dogs on restaurant patios under conditions set by state law.
A staff presenter described the state statute (Minn. Stat. 157.175) that permits cities to authorize dogs on patios when certain criteria are met. The draft ordinance would let establishments opt in, require servers not to pet animals, prohibit dogs sitting on chairs or licking plates, and would require patrons to enter the patio through the building (to give staff monitoring access and reduce underage drinking risks). The proposed program is voluntary for businesses and could be administered through an annual declaration or small permit.
The presenter said the ordinance was modeled on templates used by other Minnesota cities and noted it would allow dogs to pass through the interior to access the patio when necessary. Council members asked about other local patios and food-service distinctions; staff confirmed the statute applies only to dogs.
Council approved the first reading (motion by Bruce Wolf, second by Maggie Bass). A second reading will be scheduled for final consideration and adoption if council chooses to proceed.
