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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced a new policy Thursday that would allow for dog-friendly spaces at outdoor dining spots in the city.
All Boston restaurants and beer gardens with outdoor space can now apply for a "Dog Friendly Spaces" variance from the Inspectional Services Department’s Health Division.
Dining venues could welcome dogs as soon as June 1 if their application is approved by ISD. Dog Friendly Spaces must be entirely outdoors and establishments may not prepare any food in that area. Dog owners must also keep their dogs on a leash and be responsible for their pets' behavior.
"We’re committed to making Boston a vibrant, family-friendly City, and that means rethinking our outdoor spaces to better build community," Mayor Wu said in a statement. "Residents and small business owners have been eager for four-legged family members to be able to enjoy our outdoor spaces too, so we’re happy to make this regulatory change allowing dogs on outdoor patios and beer gardens."
"We're thrilled about the City's decision to welcome dogs in beer gardens and Aeronaut Allston is eager to embrace this policy change. Our passion for cultivating an engaging community space in Allston is only enhanced by the opportunity to include our guests' furry friends," said Ronn Friedlander, Cofounder of Aeronaut Brewing Co. "In recent years it has been disappointing to have to turn away customers who showed up with their dogs. This summer, thanks to this new policy, we're excited to welcome dogs and their owners for live music, craft beer, food trucks, and the return of the much-loved Wall of Woof doggy photo display!"
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