(a) Each taxicab shall bear distinctive permanent identification markings as follows:
(1) Rear. The rear part of each taxicab shall be painted, stenciled or decal transferred, the name of the company owning and operating the taxicab in letters approximately four inches (4") in height, and the number of the taxicab in letters approximately eight inches (8") in height.
(2) Sides. Each side of each taxicab shall have painted, stenciled or decal transferred the name of the company owning and operating the taxicab in letters approximately five inches (5") in height, the number of such taxicab in letters approximately six inches (6") in height and the rate of fare, the numerals indicating the base rate of fare in letters approximately two inches (2") in height and the remaining portion of the legend in letters approximately one inch (1") in height.
(3) Roof. An illuminated sign displaying the word "Taxi" to both the front and rear of the taxicab shall be mounted on the forward part of the roof. The sign shall be illuminated when the motor is running or when the ignition switch is in position to permit the motor to run. Such sign shall be approximately twelve inches (12") in overall length.
(4) Color. The color of such markings shall be adequately contrasting with the color of the vehicle to render them easily visible and legible.
(b) Any taxicab may be inspected upon demand by the Director of Public Safety or a designated police officer to insure that it is in safe operating condition and meets the requirements of state law.
(c) The vehicle's Ohio vehicle registration plates shall be visible to the front and rear at all times. (Ord. 2010-86. Passed 8-18-10.)
(d) The requirements of this Section 749.11 do not apply to vehicles properly licensed by the State of Ohio as limousines or livery vehicles as long as the vehicles are operating within the law of Ohio as limousines and are only picking up passengers on prearranged contracts made in advance of boarding. If the limousine is picking up passengers without prearranged contracts, they are operating as a taxi cab and do need to meet the requirements of this section (Ord. 2010-116. Passed 12-15-10.)