Calls for North Sydney Council to “exercise discretion” on allowing dogs in pubs.

By ANNA USHER

Councillors Jessica Keen and Efi Carr will propose a Notice of Motion at next Monday’s North Sydney Council meeting aimed at loosening restrictions on dogs in local pubs.

The motion will recommend that Council Rangers use their discretion more liberally when it comes to canine companions in lower north shore watering holes.

Under the current Australian Food Standards Code, and state government legislation enforced by councils, businesses can choose to allow dogs in outdoor dining areas, such as footpath dining or an open beer garden with street access.

Indoor dining areas and kitchens, however, are off-limits to pets.

Councillor Keen said while there is a long history of welcoming dogs into many local pubs, “there have been occasions when Council staff have undertaken enforcement action to prevent dogs in pubs in indoor areas.”

Several popular venues, including the Neutral Bay Club, Hotel Mosman’s upstairs area, The Greens, and Warringah Bowls Club, already permit dogs in their outdoor spaces.

A Mosman Collective poll revealed overwhelming backing for more lenient policies, with many locals advocating for better access for their furry friends.

“Dogs should be allowed in pubs and on ferries, full stop. And not at the boss’s discretion,” Annette Hughes said.

Echoing her sentiment, Jane Bennet-Earle commented, “If prestigious hotels abroad can accommodate pets, so should our local pubs.”

Despite the enthusiasm, some remain skeptical, with one Mosman Collective reader, Grant, raising concerns.

“If some [people] have disgusting, zero hygiene practices with their dogs, let them do that in their own home,” he said, “Where food is served, you should never have drooling, yapping, biting, urinating, defecating dogs.”

The motion, scheduled for discussion this Monday, aims to clarify council’s legal standing and capacity to adjust enforcement practices.

It also seeks support for a state government review of the policies that currently restrict dogs in pub interiors, potentially granting publicans the freedom to decide on their own pet policies based on customer preference and venue suitability.