With Summer Approaching, Health Department Cracking Down On Dogs In Bars

By Mark Taylor

DENVER (CBS4) - Biscuits and Brews calls itself "Wagalicious." It's a restaurant, bar and dog park all in one.

"A space for dining, drinking, and then an on-leash patio," owner Vincent Palazzotto said. "Pets will be vetted so they will be allowed off leash."

The bar hopes to debut this summer and right now is still working with the Health Department for the City of Denver on making sure everything is up to code.

The health department is currently cracking down on rule breakers, specifically when it comes to dogs in bars and breweries.

For the past three years the health department has operated on a complaint basis, but since April they've reinstated routine inspections and some Denver bars may face fines.

"It's a somewhat common violation for us, especially as we head into the warmer months," said Danica Lee, Director of Public Health Inspections. "The only animals allowed inside regulated establishments are service animals."

In 2007 Denver began allowing leashed dogs on some patios with certain restrictions.

As summer approaches the new routine inspectors will deliver three warnings to violators before issuing a $250 fine.

"We are doing outreach right now with the Brewers Guild," Lee said.

In 2017 inspectors will once again start issuing fines on the second violation.

As for Biscuits and Brews, Palazzotto hopes to have a late summer debut. Learn more about the new venue at BiscuitsandBrews.com.

Mark Taylor is a weekend morning anchor and reporter with CBS4 news covering a wide variety of stories. Follow him on Twitter @MarkTaylor_TV.