Ahead of the 2026 Mardi Gras season, the City of Mobile has updated its horse-related policies to enhance the safety and welfare of horses, riders, and spectators during parades. Key changes include Animal Control Officers conducting on-site health evaluations of horses using national standards, replacing the previous veterinary certificate requirement. Horse owners must submit comprehensive health records, including a negative Coggins test and proof of vaccinations, by January 23, 2026. Rider safety measures have also been strengthened, with streamlined training requirements and mandatory helmets for riders aged 16 and under.

The city will offer a free rider training clinic before the season and continues to collaborate with veterinarians, riding groups, and law enforcement to enforce these standards. Horses failing to meet the updated criteria may be removed from parade routes to ensure overall safety. Full details of the 2026 Horse Policy are available on the City of Mobile’s Mardi Gras Dashboard.