Region of Waterloo ready for final Taxi By-law

Waterloo Region – Traditional and non-traditional taxi services heard details today that will be included in the new Taxi By-law due out in August 2016. Recommendations from the By-law review were passed and staff will now include them in the new Taxi By-law.

“Approval of the recommendations means we can move forward and finalize the By-law,” said Jane Mitchell, Regional Councillor and Chair, Licensing & Hearings Committee. The recommendations, derived from a variety of public input methods, make the By-law more balanced for all vehicles for hire. “Drivers, owners and brokers will now have a similar license structure that achieves public safety and consumer protection.”

Highlights of the new Taxi By-law will include:

• new licensing ratios and limits;
• a fair and flexible rate structure for both traditional taxis and app based companies;
• a fair fee structure for all vehicles for hire;
• the requirement of cameras in all traditional taxis until they can meet similar criteria through an application;
• consistent documentation, driver screening and vehicle requirements for all drivers;
• consistent insurance requirements for traditional and non-traditional taxis.

The Region, as a regulator, recognized new technologies are here to stay, while also acknowledging that taxis are a critical part of public transportation. Public input was clear, they wanted both options – they wanted choice. The By-law review provided an opportunity to show leadership in finding manageable, innovative solutions to this complex issue.

“Our priority throughout the process was to ensure passenger safety and consumer protection,” said Kris Fletcher, Regional Clerk and Director of Council Services. “The recommendations for the new By-law will provide you with a safe ride regardless of the method you choose.”

The final Taxi By-law is scheduled to be passed at the August 2016 Regional Council meeting with implementation set for October 1, 2016.

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For more information, please contact: Kris Fletcher, Regional Clerk and Director of Council and Administrative Services, Region of Waterloo 519-575-4029 or kfletcher@regionofwaterloo.ca