San Pedro residents and visitors are being reminded that pets are not allowed at restaurants or bars that serve food, as the Public Health Department begins stricter enforcement of long-standing health regulations. The San Pedro Town Council is urging the community to be mindful of this rule and to support local businesses in complying with their license requirements.
For years, many pet owners have brought their furry companions along to their favorite dining spots, especially open-air restaurants and bars on piers. However, during a recent liquor license meeting, the Public Health Department emphasized that animals—of any kind—are not permitted in food establishments due to health and safety concerns. While this rule has existed for a long time, it has not been strictly enforced until now.
The regulation applies to all businesses that hold a restaurant license, as they must meet strict inspection standards from the Public Health Department, Fire Department, and Police Department. Business owners have expressed that some customers can be insistent about bringing their pets into establishments, creating challenges for compliance.
“No Pets Allowed, Please” Town Council Urges
“The Public Health Department specifies that animals should not be allowed in restaurants. It refers to ALL animals and is considered because of health and safety for all (it does not single out pets). This policy has existed for as long as we remember and we thank the Public Health Department for being an active regulatory agency in our town.
We understand that visitors and residents may be affected by this. Let’s consider our businesses and support them in complying with the stipulations of their licenses.” – says the San Pedro Town Council
While this change may disappoint some pet owners, the Town Council is asking for understanding and cooperation. Supporting businesses in adhering to these health regulations ensures a safe and sanitary dining experience for everyone.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to respect the rule and make alternative arrangements for their pets when dining out.
4 Responses
I have a great service dog who alerts before seizures. She has always been permitted to sit with me everywhere in SP. This no animals whatsoever policy is not a good policy. True service animals are not a threat for any health concern. (I do not mean emotional support animals as they are not the same thing at all.) This really needs to be revisited with some education involved for the council. What happens if I don’t have my dog and miss an alert? Should I just potentially end up being in a very serious medical condition over some ignorant rule? I am very disappointed in this situation..
Not 100% sure of the full rules, but I am pretty sure the health dept and the establishments would be pretty accommodating for service dogs.
Service animals need to be exempt as they are in other countries.
That’s total crap. When somebody has a service animal like a blind man does that mean they can’t go into a restaurant now? Or somebody has a medical service animal who alerts them to low glucose does that mean they can’t eat at a restaurant now? Like I said total crap