What you need to know as Edmonton's new taxi bylaw takes effect

Edmontonsun.com
March 1, 2016
By Elise Stolte

Edmonton's new vehicle-for-hire bylaw took effect Tuesday, throwing open the doors to increased competition and at least half a dozen new players.

With Uber stymied by its provincial insurance issue, TappCar became the first to register in Edmonton as a large-scale, commercial private transportation provider under the new rules. It's planning to launch with a fleet of more than 200 cars as early as next week. In addition, five companies registered in the regional private transportation provider category, which means they have less than 200 cars.

"We advise people to be self-informed because the market is changing," said David Hales, the city's branch manager for development services. He outlined the differences between vehicle-for-hire options.

What can you expect from a taxi?

Taxis still operate as they did before with marked cars, a meter inside to calculate fares and a visible city-issued driver's licence with the driver's photo. Taxi rates are set in the bylaw and the number of taxis on the street is capped at 1,319 cars. Taxis can be hailed roadside, at a taxi stand, through a company app or by phone.

What is a private transportation provider or PTP?

The bylaw establishes a new class of vehicle for hire. These companies, which will likely include TappCar and Uber, can set their own rates as long as the fare is made clear to passengers ahead of time. PTP-class vehicles can be booked through an app or by phone.

Are all theses options safe?

Driver for all classes of vehicle-for-hire have to undergo a police information check, which includes a review of police files, charges and pending court decisions. Drivers must also have provincially approved insurance before they get a city licence. They must have a professional-class driver's licence and their cars need an annual mechanical inspection by a certified garage.

Are all these cars marked?

Taxis have a city-issued taxi plate starting with T, TL or A for accessible taxis. They also have stickers on the side with the rates posted and unit number decals behind. PTPs must have the trademark of their company displayed on the passenger side of the windshield. Smaller PTPs must have a vehicle inspection sticker from the City of Edmonton.

No taxi or private transportation provider is allowed to refuse a passenger unless that passenger poses a danger to the car or the driver. They are not allowed to refuse a trip based on the destination or the ethnicity of the passenger. Complaints can be submitted at edmonton.ca/vehicleforhire or by phone 780-496-5244.