Animals are not allowed within food service establishments unless they are a service animal. The regulations governing service animals are complex. Clark County Public Health has partnered with food industry leaders, non-profits, and other agencies to offer support to food service owner/operators and the public. Here are some helpful resources:
- ADA.gov Frequently Asked Questions
- NW ADA Center-questions or concerns about the ADA Federal Regulations
- Washington Service Dog Association-Information about service dog training and access
- Clark County Public Health-For concerns about food safety
- Service animal brochure
- Service animal signage
Dogs in outdoor areas of a food establishment
Since 2005, Washington State Administrative Retail Food Code (WAC 246-215) has restricted animals from the premises of a food establishment. Food establishment owners interested in allowing dogs in outdoor areas of their food establishments need to have a code Variance Review approved by Clark County Public Health. We have a pre-established set of criteria to help owners assemble a Variance Review application. If you are a food establishment owner interested in this option, please contact your designated food safety specialist for more information.