Virginia Food Laws generally do not allow live animals in food establishments. There are a few exceptions.
- Service animals are always allowed, including inside restaurants.
- Dogs may be allowed in outdoor dining areas with health department approval.
Virginia law allows dogs in outdoor dining areas if a restaurant meets certain criteria. These rules only apply to dogs. Other animals are not allowed. Service animals and patrol dogs are exempt from these requirements.
Approval Required
To allow dogs outdoors, an establishment must:
- Apply to the Public Health Division
- Agree to follow all requirements
Once approved, the establishment will get a new license showing Dog Dining as a condition.
Requirements for Dog Dining
The establishment must ensure that:
- The outdoor dining area is not fully enclosed and is not a part of the indoor space
- The outdoor dining area has a separate entrance for patrons and their dogs
- A clearly visible sign states that dogs:
- Are allowed in the outdoor dining area
- Must be on a leash and under control
- Are not allowed on seats, tables, or laps
- Must not eat or drink from restaurant dishes
- Staff have supplies to clean up dog vomit or feces, including:
- Disposable gloves
- The correct disinfectant
- A plastic bag for disposal
- Handwashing supplies
Service animals are generally allowed to stay with their person, even in places that don’t allow pets. This includes being inside a restaurant.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has guidelines explaining the difference between a pet and a service animal.
- A service animal is a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.
- Emotional support, comfort, or companion animals are not service animals.
By law, food establishment staff may ask only two questions to confirm whether a dog is a service animal:
- Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
- What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Staff may not:
- Ask for any documentation
- Ask the dog to prove its task
- Ask about the person’s disability
More Information
