The Board of Public Works and Safety is empowered to promulgate rules and regulations not inconsistent with this chapter as may be necessary or desirable to aid in attaining compliance with this chapter, including but not limited to, the following minimum standards:
(A) Taximeter.
(1) Every taxicab shall be equipped with a taximeter of a make satisfactory to the Board, which taximeter shall be so placed that the reading dial showing the amount to be charged is well lighted and readily discernible by the passenger.
(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any taxicab without an operating taximeter in compliance herewith.
(3) The use of any inaccurate taximeter or other measuring instrument for the purpose of gauging or indicating distance traveled, or waiting time, for the purpose of fixing rates to be collected from the public is hereby prohibited, except upon express written authority from the Board. It shall be the duty of the owner or operator using any taximeter to keep that taximeter accurate.
(B) Distinctive markings. Each taxicab shall have distinctive markings identifying it as a taxicab.
(C) Rate structure. The Board shall promulgate rules and regulations requiring the conspicuous display of the fare structure of each permitted taxicab. The display shall include:
(1) The distance for which the original flag drop pays;
(2) The rate per mile thereafter;
(3) The charge per minute waiting time;
(4) Any surcharges added to the fare for service to specific locations during specific hours.
(D) Taxicab condition.
(1) All doors must have operating handles that allow opening from both inside and outside.
(2) All suspension components affecting the ride and safety of the taxicab shall be reasonably maintained.
(3) All windshield and window glass shall be maintained free from conditions that reduce clarity of vision.
(4) Seat covers shall be permanently attached or fixed to the seats of the taxicab and have no exposed wire or sharp edges either from metal or hardened vinyl. No broken springs, sagging or horizontal slippage is allowable in either seat.
(5) Seat belts are to be in operating condition and easily accessible by all passengers.
(6) Child restraints shall be used in taxicabs in full compliance with applicable law.
(7) Every operating permit holder shall ensure that the interior of the taxicab is maintained at all times in a reasonably clean condition.
(Ord. 13-C-92, passed 6-9-92) Penalty, see § 114.99