NOT ALLOWED - DOG SITTING ON CHAIR ON PATIO - PHOTO BY TAMARA BELLIS VIA UNSPLASH.COM
According to a recent WalletHub (Website) analysis evaluating 100 of the largest U.S. cities, Orlando ranks impressively high (7th Place) on the pet-friendliness scale thanks to its high number of veterinarians per capita and a strong presence of pet-related businesses. But, while the city earns points for pet infrastructure and access, that ranking hides an inconsistency at the municipal level: Orlando’s official regulations still impose tight restrictions on where pets are actually allowed to hang out in public.
Despite the pet-positive perception, Orlando law prohibits dogs inside any food-serving establishments, even when accompanied by owners (which is a weird thing to say, because your dog isn’t going to brunch without you). If a restaurant or café wants to permit dogs on its outdoor patio, the business must apply for a Dog-Friendly Dining Permit, backed up with layout diagrams, insurance documentation, and a non-refundable administrative fee (currently $275).
But not a hell of a lot of local businesses have the permit. Off the top of my head, based on a previous article I wrote for another publication, I can say that Lucky Lure, Ollie’s Public House, Relax Grill, and Boxi Park in Lake Nona, are all legit, permitted places where you are allowed to have a dog on the patio, but you still can’t bring them inside, and there are a whole set of rules they still have to abide by:
- Waterless hand sanitizer should be provided at all tables in a pet-friendly designated outdoor area.
- Dogs are not allowed to come into contact with serving dishes, utensils, tableware, linens, paper products, or anything involved in food service operations.
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times and be kept under reasonable control.
- Dogs are not allowed to sit on chairs, tables, or other furnishings.
- A sign must be posted to remind employees and patrons of all applicable rules. A sign must also be posted near the entrance to let patrons know that some portion of the establishment is available to patrons and their dogs.
So, don’t just assume that you can bring your dog somewhere just because they put out a water dish. You could end up getting that business in a lot of trouble. Also, maybe consider for a moment that your dog may prefer staying home.
