(a) In order for a motor transportation company to commence or continue its operations within or through the corporate limits of the City, it must first obtain from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio a certificate declaring that public convenience and necessity requires such operation. No person shall conduct such operations without having first obtained such a certificate. (1993 Code 70.37)
(b) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.