Know these rules before bringing your dog to a California restaurant in 2025
Wondering if your dog is allowed at restaurants in California? Here's what dog owners need to know about California law and outdoor dining with pets in 2025.
Dining out with your dog? In California, that’s legal—sometimes. Thanks to state law, dogs can join you at certain outdoor dining areas, but not every restaurant allows it, and there are important rules that pet owners need to follow.
Pat Sharyon
This related guide is designed for restaurant owners in California.
This guide explains when and where your dog can legally accompany you to a restaurant in California, and what you should expect when dining out with your pup.
Are Dogs Allowed at Restaurants in California?
Yes, dogs are allowed at restaurants in California, but only in outdoor dining areas, and only if the restaurant chooses to allow them. This policy is permitted under California Health and Safety Code § 114259.5, and it comes with some clear conditions for pet owners.
When Is It Legal to Bring Your Dog?
Here’s when your dog is legally allowed at a food facility:
- The restaurant has an outdoor dining area.
- The restaurant owner has opted in and allows dogs on the patio or outdoor space.
- Your dog enters through a separate outdoor entrance—not through the restaurant’s indoor space.
- Your dog is on a leash or in a carrier, and stays under your control at all times.
- Your dog doesn’t sit on chairs, benches, or other furniture.
- Any food or water provided to your dog must be served in disposable containers.
- You clean up after your dog, and make sure they don’t cause a disruption.
Notably, restaurant staff are prohibited from petting or interacting with your dog while on duty. If they do, they must wash their hands immediately after.
Where Can’t Dogs Go?
Even at dog-friendly establishments, dogs are never allowed in:
- Indoor dining areas
- Kitchens or food prep zones
- Food or utensil storage areas
- Mobile food facilities (like food trucks), temporary food booths, or certified farmers’ markets—unless kept at least 20 feet away
Tips for a Great Dog Dining Experience
- Call ahead – Not all restaurants with patios allow dogs. Some counties or cities have local ordinances that are stricter than state law.
- Bring your own water bowl – It’s more convenient, and many places won’t offer shared containers.
- Avoid peak hours – A quieter setting is better for dogs and other diners.
- Know your dog’s limits – Even well-behaved pups might not love being under the table for two hours.
- Clean up after your dog – It’s the law, and it helps keep dogs welcome.
What About Service Animals?
Service animals have broader access under federal and state law. They're allowed indoors and outdoors, and do not need to follow the same rules as pet dogs. Businesses cannot refuse service animals in most cases.
Want to Know What Restaurants Are Required to Do?
If you’re curious about what restaurants must do to comply with dog-friendly dining laws—including liability issues, sanitation standards, and local ordinances—read our companion piece for restaurant owners.
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Pat Sharyon
Pat Sharyon
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