LAFAYETTE – Visitors to the Historic Lafayette Farmers Market on Fifth Street in downtown Lafayette, held every Saturday morning from May through October, are reminded that a city ordinance requires that no pets or other animals, including dogs and cats, may be in the market area.

“Everyone loves their pets, and many enjoy taking their dogs out for a morning walk,” said Kim Murray, program manager at Greater Lafayette Commerce, market host. “We understand that. At the same time, we are required to see that visitors comply with the city ordinance, which was passed because food is being sold and to assure the safety of children at the market. We have had other visitors bring their concerns to us, so we must ask that everyone keep their pets at home.”

It’s also a good time to remind dog owners that a great place to take their pets for outdoor activity is the Shamrock Dog Park at 115 Sanford in Lafayette , Murray says. “For everyone’s health, safety and enjoyment, our city’s dog park, which has beautiful shade trees, is a better option for dogs than the Farmers Market. It was created specifically for pooches.”

The Lafayette ordinance pertaining to pets reads: “It is unlawful for any person to bring pets or other live animals, such as dogs or cats, in the Farmers Market. The Market Manager or its designee has the power to remove or have removed all such animals.”

A separate city ordinance stipulates that fines could be assessed for violations.

The Historic Lafayette Farmers Market has been held annually for more than 165 years, with dozens of vendors offering fresh vegetables, fruits and other commodities.

The Lafayette Farmers Market is sponsored by Greater Lafayette Commerce, headquartered at 337 Columbia St. in Lafayette . Greater Lafayette commerce, whose roots go back 85 years, is a nonprofit membership organization supported by local industries and governments. Its mission is to advance economic and community prosperity for a superior quality of life.