A new Chicago ordinance proposed in September 2025 would allow restaurants to opt in as “dog-friendly,” permitting dogs in outdoor dining areas.
This represents a significant shift from the previous blanket prohibition on dogs in restaurant spaces. Under the proposed rules, restaurants could voluntarily register as dog-friendly establishments, giving diners the option to bring their well-behaved pups along for outdoor meals.
The ordinance is part of a broader trend in cities across the country to accommodate the growing number of dog owners who want to include their pets in more aspects of daily life.
If passed, this would complement Chicago’s existing network of 33+ dog-friendly areas by making the city even more welcoming for dog owners and their companions.