CHARLOTTE COUNTY — Charlotte County animal lovers might soon see more dogs out and about in restaurants throughout the county. The Charlotte County Commission directed county staff Tuesday to begin drafting an ordinance so restaurants could apply for a permit to allow pets in a designated area.

The issue was brought to the commission by the Englewood Chamber of Commerce after restaurant owner Joe Reichard was cited by the Department of Health for allowing dogs at his restaurant during an inspection earlier this year. Live animals are prohibited from being in public food service establishments under Florida Food and Drug Administration Codes, unless the owners apply for a permit. However, Charlotte County currently has no ordinance allowing restaurant owners to obtain a permit.