Italian municipalities issue summer heat ordinances to protect pets

The mayor of Bari, Vito Leccese, signed an ordinance that bans the exposure of companion animals to direct sun between 10:00 and 18:00 from now until 30 September 2026. owners must provide shade, fresh water and adequate shelter, and keeping pets inside parked vehicles during the hottest hours is prohibited. Violations carry administrative fines and possible criminal liability.

In Santa Teresa di Riva, Mayor Danilo Lo Giudice issued ordinance No. 80 on 22 July 2026, introducing a heat‑protection package that bans animal‑drawn vehicle traffic on days when temperatures reach 33 °C or when official heat‑risk alerts are issued. The measure also requires owners of dogs, cats and other pets to provide shade, water and ventilation, and forbids leaving them on balconies, terraces or in cars without climate control from 9:00 to 19:00. The rules remain in force until 30 September, with severe penalties for non‑compliance.