Banff 
Alberta has announced that eateries no longer need approval from a public health inspector to allow dogs on patios.
According to the news release, restaurants, bars and coffee shops can now welcome customers’ dogs on their patios without approval from Alberta Health Services.
Premier Jason Kenney says the change is part of the administration’s commitment to cut red tape.
Eateries planning to offer dog-friendly patios will have to will continue to ensure food safety standards for all customers and can allow non-service dogs only on outdoor patios.
Restaurant patrons must keep their dogs on a leash or in a carrier and have physical control of the dog at all times and dogs must not access any indoor food handling areas, such as dining and food preparation areas.
Alberta Health Services Senior medical officer of health, Dr. Laura McDougall, said in a statement, “AHS is supportive of dog-friendly patios as long as it’s being done in a safe manner. We will continue to be available to restaurant owners and Albertans to provide guidance and support in the establishment and maintenance of dog-friendly patios as needed.”
Service dogs are allowed in indoor and outdoor dining areas.
Alberta Health has published an information sheet which offers guidance to restaurants and outlines best practices to support food operators who choose to allow dogs on patios.
