MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Going out to eat in Marion County? You might soon be able to bring along your furry friend if a proposed ordinance goes through.
On Aug. 15, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners held the first of two required public hearings for an ordinance which would allow dogs in outdoor seating areas at certain restaurants across the county.
This ordinance wouldn’t just give dogs free rein to roam the restaurant, though. There are many precautions businesses must follow, including obtaining a permit, installing signage at all entrances to outdoor seating areas and keeping dogs out of indoor areas.
Additionally, dogs must be kept on a leash and “under reasonable and direct control.” Owners must also keep their pets away from restaurant-owned supplies like plates and glasses.
Ocala restaurants have been able to choose to allow four-legged guests to accompany their owners at outdoor seating areas for several years. This ordinance would expand the rule to include restaurants across the rest of Marion County. If a restaurant did not want to allow dogs, they’re not obligated to do so. They simply wouldn’t apply for a permit.
Commissioners showed unanimous support for the ordinance. Marion County’s Land Development Regulation Commission also recommended the ordinance for approval on Aug. 2.
However, some community members had objections, citing that owners could still lose control of their dogs. If the ordinance passes, it’s ultimately up to individual restaurants to enforce it.
The second of two public hearings will be held on Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m. For more information, take a look at the minutes from the Aug. 15 Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting.