SB299 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Rodger SmithermanSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Animals, dogs, allowing a pet dog in an outdoor dining area under certain conditions

Summary

Allows pet dogs in outdoor dining areas of restaurants if the owner opt-in and follow specified rules.

What This Bill Does

The bill lets a dog be present in an outdoor dining area only if the restaurant chooses to allow it and files a waiver with the State Health Department. It requires designated rules for the outdoor area, including a separate entrance, a visible notice, leash or carrier use, no dog seating on furniture, no food preparation or utensil storage in the area, at least a 12-foot buffer from beverage prep, and proper cleaning and sanitization. It also sets limits on indoor animals, requires staff to avoid direct contact with dogs and wash hands if needed, makes dog owners liable for damages, and allows wine or beer service in compliant establishments or dog parks, while maintaining restrictions on emotional support animals inside.

Who It Affects

• Food service establishments (restaurants, cafes) that choose to allow dogs in their outdoor dining areas and must file a waiver and comply with the rules.
• Dog-owning customers who want to bring their dogs to outdoor dining areas, provided the establishment has opted in and follows the designated rules.

Key Provisions

• Provision 1: Outdoor dog area rules — a restaurant may allow pet dogs in its outdoor dining area only if the owner elects to allow it by filing a waiver with the State Health Department and the area meets requirements (separate entrance, visible signage, leash or carrier, no seating on furniture, not used for food prep, 12-foot distance from beverage areas, cleanliness, and compliance with local ordinances).
• Provision 2: Indoor restrictions and liability — employees must not have direct contact with dogs in the outdoor area and must wash hands if needed; dog owners are liable for damages; live animals are generally not allowed inside (except service dogs and certain enforcement dogs); emotional support animals are prohibited inside, and wine/beer service is allowed in compliant establishments or dog parks.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 23, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Animals