In addition to the other provisions of this code, the following restrictions and prohibitions are specifically applicable to taxicabs:
(A) Every taxicab shall be clearly marked on both sides with the name and telephone number of the taxicab company, and a number designating the specific taxicab. Every taxicab shall be marked with the same unique identifying number on the rear of the vehicle. For purposes of this subsection, lettering shall be not less than two and one-fourth inches in height and not less than five-sixteenths inch in stroke.
(B) Every taxicab driver, while transporting any passenger to a destination, shall proceed by the most direct route that will deliver the passenger safely and expeditiously to the destination.
(C) Any person engaging a taxicab shall have the full and exclusive use of such vehicle, and the taxicab driver shall not solicit or carry any additional passenger without the consent of the person first engaging the taxicab.
(D) Taxicab passengers shall be seated in the rear seat of the taxicab, except when the rear seat of the taxicab is fully occupied, or except for student drivers, supervisors, or aged, infirm, or handicapped persons who cannot readily enter the rear compartment of the taxicab.
(E) Each taxicab shall be equipped with a dispatch system capable of two-way voice communication from all locations within the city limits.
(F) Each taxicab shall be equipped with a taximeter that shall at all times accurately reflect the service charges. Taximeters shall be of a type and design approved by the city. Taximeters shall be illuminated with charges readily discernible by any passenger in the taxicab. Where the approved taximeter is capable of a setting to rates other than approved by the city, the taximeter shall by sign, or other device, clearly indicate when the rates authorized by this chapter are being charged when operating within the city.
(G) The documents required by § 5.20.330(A) shall be displayed in each taxicab, by placing them in a holder permanently affixed to the dash of the vehicle, and in full view of passengers.
(H) Any vehicle operated as a taxicab shall be equipped with a functioning air conditioning system.
(Ord. 2007-03 § 2, 2007)