New law permits outdoor dining with dogs in California

SACRAMENTO — Fido can feast with you now when you go out to eat in California.

Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday said he signed a bill permitting pet dogs at restaurants with outdoor spaces. It doesn't force restaurants to allow dogs, but rather implements guidelines for how they can accommodate pets.

Some local public health departments have allowed dogs in outdoor dining areas for years, but the state has banned the practice. Local jurisdictions can still ban it if they choose.

The bill requires a separate entrance for outdoor dining areas and says pets aren't allowed on chairs, seats or benches. They must be on a leash or in a pet carrier under control of the owner and owners have to clean up after them.

The law takes effect next year.