(A) Before issuing a taxicab license, the applicant shall present to the Council a certificate signed by a competent and experienced mechanic showing that the taxicab conveyance is in good mechanical condition, that it is thoroughly safe for transportation of passengers and that it is in neat and clean condition.
(B) The similar certificate may be required from time to time during the licensed period. In lieu of the certificate the Council may accept the report of the Chief of Police relative thereto.
(`86 Code, § 4.37)