New Law Sets Rules For Pets In North Carolina Breweries

Governor Roy Cooper signed a bill this week reopening the door to dogs and cats in North Carolina breweries. 

State law currently applies food-service codes to craft breweries and taprooms, effectively barring pets from the premises.

The law had been largely ignored until recently, when public health agencies stepped up enforcement because of customer complaints.

The News and Observer reports the new rules allow for pets if the “brewery is not engaged in the preparation of food on the premises.”

The bill also gives distilleries increased serving privileges while reducing regulation on their out-of-state sales.

The governor said in a statement that the legislation “will help small businesses continue to thrive."

The changes will take effect September 1st.