(A) The operator of a taxicab company shall establish a rate of fare according to a mileage rate as measured by the taximeter, an hourly rate, or a flat rate. However, the operator is prohibited from charging any type of rate or amount in addition to or in excess of the rates allowed in this section. The rate of fare established by an operator shall be effective only after the rate has been submitted in writing to and acknowledged as received by the Clerk-Treasurer, either in a new or renewed company license application or on a separate written notice.
(B) Every taxicab operated under this section shall have at all times a rate card receipted by the Clerk-Treasurer setting forth the scheduled rates of fare displayed in plain view of all passengers. The rate set forth on the rate card must be the same as the rate set forth on the exterior of the taxicab and on the rate provided to the Board of Public Works, as well as any fares posted or quoted via website, email, or social networking devices.
(C) The company may have more than one scheduled rate of fare, to allow for times of the year or week, based on demand. However, the company may only include the charges provided in this section. The company may increase its rate during the license year, provided that it must first comply with the notice and display requirements of this division.
(D) The company shall submit to the Clerk-Treasurer its scheduled rates of fare each year along with its application for a license or a renewal of the license.
(E) Charges for taxicab service may only include the following:
(1) A pickup charge for trips resulting from a telephone request;
(2) A pickup charge for trips not resulting from a telephone request;
(3) A mileage charge measured in a standard increment;
(4) A waiting charge;
(5) An extra passenger charge;
(6) An alternative hourly charge;
(7) A flat rate, so long as the company does not have more than one flat rate in existence at any one time.
(F) Each company shall be equipped and authorized to accept payment of the fare by credit or debit card. It shall be unlawful for a taxi company owner or driver to discourage a customer from paying by credit card or to charge an additional amount for paying by credit or debit card.
(Ord. 24-2016, passed 11-21-16)