Before a license is issued upon an original application, the mayor shall refer the application to the chief of police, who shall investigate and report to the mayor the condition of the equipment for which a license is requested. If it is found that the taxicab sought to be licensed is a fit and safe conveyance and that it complies with all the requirements of this chapter and any ordinances of the city, the mayor shall issue the license upon the payment of the proper license fee, as set forth in § 111.05 of this chapter, and the furnishing of insurance as required by § 111.06 of this chapter. The investigation shall not be necessary when an application for the renewal of an existing license is filed.
('68 Code, § 52.16)