Long Beach restaurants may soon welcome dogs

LONG BEACH - Dogs may soon make the jump from the sidewalk to outdoor restaurant patios in Long Beach.

On Tuesday, the City Council will consider changes to city code that would give restaurant operators the option to allow canine companions at outdoor patios where food is served.

Councilman Robert Garcia introduced legislation in April asking Department of Health and Human Services staff to draft new regulations permitting dogs to join their owners who are dining outside.

The request follows similar policies adopted by Marin County, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County and, in December, Los Angeles County.

Restaurants won't be forced to accommodate pet dog owners under the proposed rules, which only apply to outdoor areas and will require a separate outside entrance to a dining patio.

"All we're doing is creating an additional option for business owners," Garcia said.

Garcia's initial measure was co-sponsored by Councilwoman Suja Lowenthal and Councilman Gary DeLong.

The policy was developed with input from several business and community groups. It would be implemented immediately, if passed.

Expanded citations collection

The council is also expected on Tuesday to renew its contract with its parking citations collections vendor - with enhancements that include reporting those with delinquent tickets to credit bureaus.

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Long Beach restaurants may soon welcome dogs