The City of Knoxville Mayor's Council on Disability Issues, or CODI, is hosting a public forum to discuss the recent state legislation allowing pet dogs to accompany their owners in outdoor eating areas - if the restaurant receives a permit from the city.

The forum is set for 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 9, in the Small Assembly Room of the City County Building.

CODI is seeking input from residents about whether the city should allow the permits or not and - if they are issued - what should the conditions be for the permits.

The committee will make a recommendation to the mayor and to City Council based in part on comments received at the meeting. If you cannot attend the meeting you may still comment by sending your comments to Stephanie Brewer Cook at [email protected].

If you are an individual with a disability and require an accommodation to attend the forum please also contact Ms. Cook, no less than 48 hours prior to the forum, at 865-215-2034 (office), at 865-215-4581 (TTY) or you can fax your request at 865-215-2962. She may also be reached at her email [email protected].

The legislation authorizes certain cities and counties - including the City of Knoxville - to establish an ordinance and permitting process allowing pet dogs to accompany their owners into designated outdoor dining areas. The new law requires any ordinance to include a number of conditions, for instance patrons must keep their pets on a leash and under control and the dogs cannot go into the interior of the restaurant.

This law does not apply to service animals.

The City of Knoxville has not determined yet whether it will establish an ordinance allowing pet dogs in outdoor eating areas or the specific elements of such an ordinance.