Revised 10-17-2013

ARTICLE Q. TAXICABS
Sec. 6-1421. Sec. 6-1422. Sec. 6-1423. Sec. 6-1424. Sec. 6-1425. Sec. 6-1426. Sec. 6-1427. Sec. 6-1428. Title. Definitions. Taxicab regulatory permit required. Fixed business address required. Indemnity for benefit of city. Insurance for benefit of passengers. Blanket policy. Notice when voided.

Sec. 6-1421. Title. This article shall be known and may be recited as "The Taxicab Ordinance." (Code 1977, 6-1421; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1421) Sec. 6-1422. Definitions. City. The word "city" shall mean the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia, a municipal corporation, said definition to include all areas within the corporate limits of the City of Savannah. (b) Taxicab/ Taxicab Company. A motor vehicle engaged in the business of carrying passengers for hire, or offering to carry passengers for hire, except motor vehicles used as ambulances, sightseeing cars or buses, and except for limousines and buses operating on a fixed route. All taxicab companies must have a fixed place of business located within Chatham County and are required to operate all taxicab vehicles for hire under the provisions of this ordinance, whether a person, firm, partnership, or corporation. (c) Taxicab regulatory permit decal. The right and privilege granted by the city for the operation of a taxicab within the corporate limits of the city issued upon the receipt of a regulatory fee established in the revenue ordinance. (d) Taxicab company. The holder of one or more taxicab regulatory permits to operate a taxicab under the provisions of this article, whether a person, firm, partnership, or corporation. (e) (d) Driver. Any person who drives or operates a taxicab on the streets of Savannah. (f) (e) Taxicab driver's permit. The written authority granted by the City for an individual to drive or operate a taxicab within the City of Savannah. (g) (f) Street. The word "street" shall mean and include any street, alley, lane, avenue, court, or public place in the City of Savannah. (h) (g) Transportation services coordinator Supervisor. The individual employee or organizational unit of the City charged with the responsibility for administering and 1 (a)

Revised 10-17-2013 enforcing this article, except for specific responsibilities otherwise provided in this article. The Transportation Supervisor or designee of the City of Savannah, in addition to having the authority to impose fees specified herein, shall retain the authority to also impose permit suspensions, deadline decals, and any other action authorized under the Taxicab Ordinance to enforce said ordinance. (i) (h) Taxi Stand. A public place alongside the curb of a street or elsewhere which has been designated by the city as reserved exclusively for the use of taxicabs. (j) (i) Telephone stand. A place alongside a street or elsewhere where a taxicab company has been authorized by the city to install a telephone or call box for the taking of calls and the dispatching of taxicabs. (k) (j) Taximeter. A meter instrument or device attached to a taxicab which measures the distance driven and the waiting time upon which the fare is based. (l) (k) Taxicab appeals panel. A citizen group appointed by the city manager to review appeals of citations and suspensions pursuant to the taxicab ordinance. (l) Unauthorized Solicitation of Vehicle For Hire Services. Unauthorized solicitation occurs whenever any person, offers to engage in any business, trade, or commercial transaction involving the rendering to another person of any Vehicle-for-Hire services. (Code 1977, 6-1422; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1422) (m) Taxi Advisory Committee. A committee whose duty is to recommend to the MPSD proposed guidelines, policies, and ordinance changes to enhance and improve taxicab operations. This committee will be chaired by the MPSD or designee, and consist of one representative from each of the following groups: Airport Management Savannah Taxicab Owners Assoc. Taxicab Owner Taxicab Driver Hospitality Industry ADA Representative Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Advisory committee (n) Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab (WAT). In accordance with the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation Vehicles, a Taxicab, defined above, specifically equipped with lifts or ramps and other equipment necessary for the transportation of persons in wheelchairs. Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab Regulatory Decal. The right and privilege granted by the City to operate a WAT within the corporate limits of the City.

(o)

Revised 10-17-2013 Section 6-1423. Taxicab Regulatory Permit Decal required. No person, firm, or corporation shall operate, or cause to be operated, a taxicab on the streets of the City unless a Taxicab Vehicle permits and has a decal signifying compliance with this Ordinance that has been issued by the City for such taxicab. All taxicabs shall display in each vehicle a current decal issued by the MPSD for each specific taxicab only after the taxicab company has been issued a Taxicab Vehicle Permit for that taxicab and that taxicab has been inspected and found to comply with all requirements of this Ordinance, including the payment of the Taxicab Regulatory Decal Vehicle Permit fee(s). The Taxicab Vehicle Permit fee shall be established by the City Revenue Ordinance.
(Code 1977, 6-1423; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1423)

A. Public Necessity and Convenience Formula for Taxicab Regulatory Decals. 1. Determination of Necessity. The minimum number of Taxicab Regulatory Decals required to provide adequate service for the public necessity and convenience shall be determined by the Mobility & Parking Services Director, with input from TAC on an annual basis, after applying the formula and using the criteria recited below, in order to determine whether to issue any additional Taxicab Regulatory Decal. 2. Informational Inputs for the Formula. The Citys determination made pursuant to this section shall be based upon the following information as of December 31 of the most recently completed calendar year: (a) One Taxicab Regulatory Decal shall be authorized for each 1,000 residents of the City of Savannah. The City resident population figure shall be based on the most current census update; (b) One Taxicab Regulatory Decal shall be issued for each 60,000 passengers deplaned at the Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport. The airport passengers deplaned figure shall be based on figures compiled and maintained by airport staff. (c) One Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab Regulatory Decal shall be authorized for each 1,000 citizens in wheelchairs between the ages of 10 and 16 and 64 (working age). 3. If additional decals are available STOA will be notified & the Mobility & Parking Services Department will post a notice on the Citys website. The number resulting from adding subparagraphs (a) and (b) above, shall be the total number of Taxicab Regulatory Decal needed to provide for public necessity and convenience. The number resulting from dividing the number of citizens in wheelchairs between the ages of 16 and 64 by 1,000 shall be the total number of WAT Vehicle Decals needed to provide for public necessity and convenience for citizens in wheelchairs. The need for new or additional Taxicab Regulatory Decal and Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab Regulatory Decal shall be determined by subtracting the current number of decals from the total number needed. If the number results in a negative figure, no new Taxicab

Revised 10-17-2013 Regulatory Decals or WAT Regulatory Decal s shall be authorized. If the number results in a positive figure, the MPSD shall be authorized to issue that many additional decals. B. Application for Taxicab Regulatory Decal. An application for a Taxicab Regulatory Decal and WAT Regulatory Decal shall be filed with the MPSD and process within ten (10) business days. The MPSD shall promulgate an application for a Taxicab Regulatory Decal and WAT Regulatory Decal which shall contain the following non-exclusive list of information: 1. The name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of the applicant; 2. The name of the applicants business and trade name under which the business will operate, its address, phone number, e-mail address and web site address, if any, and a copy of its City of Savannah Business Tax Certificate; 3. Documentation evidencing of the type of business entity and authority of the applicant to act on its behalf; 4. The number of Taxicab Regulatory Decals or WAT Regulatory Decals requested; 5. The seating capacity, make, model, year of manufacture, current mileage, vehicle identification number, state license plate number, and a copy of the current vehicle registration of each vehicle seeking to be permitted; 6. The color scheme of the vehicle the applicant intends to operate, pursuant to Section 6-1450; 7. Evidence of the insurance coverage required by Section 6-1426; 8. Such other information as determined by the MPSD to be reasonably necessary to be consistent with the provisions of this Ordinance. C. Review of Taxicab/WAT Application 1. Initial Review. Within three (3) business days after receipt of an application, the MPSD shall review the application to insure that the application is complete and all information required has been provided. 2. Final Review. Decals shall be issued or denied within fifteen (15) days upon the determination by the MPSD that the application is complete and the applicant meets all of the requirements of this Ordinance, and upon receipt of all required information. 3. Denial of Application. If, after review of the application, the MPSD finds that the applicant does not meet the requirements of this Ordinance, the MPSD shall deny the application. The denial may be conditional, and the applicant may be afforded an opportunity to provide further information or take such action which will result in compliance with this Ordinance, or the denial may be final. Final denials may be appealed to the MPSD within 10 calendar days of denial notification; if the denial is sustained, the applicant may appeal to the City Manager within 10 days of the receipt of notice that the denial was sustained. 4. Rejection. Failure to meet requirements of the application or this Ordinance, providing false or intentionally misleading information, and/or the failure to 4

Revised 10-17-2013 disclose information or the omission of any required or requested information, may result in the rejection of the application. D. Issuance of Vehicle Regulatory Decals. Upon a determination that all required information and documentation has been submitted with the Application, and the payment of an annual decal fee has been submitted, a decal shall be issued. 1. Term of Vehicle Decal. Subject to paragraph G below, said decal shall be valid until January 31 of each year. 2. Display of Decal. For each Taxicab Vehicle or WAT Vehicle Decal issued, a decal issued by the City shall be affixed to each taxicab on the passenger side front windshield. 3. Use of Decal Required. Each decal holder shall maintain in active operation a taxicab or wheelchair accessible taxicab for which the decal was issued. 4. All Taxicab Regulatory Decals and WAT Regulatory Decals issued, renewed, or transferred herein grant taxicab companies revocable license to operate a taxicab under the provisions of this Ordinance. The City shall retain full authority to issue, deny, and/or revoke all decals and must approve any and all decal transfers. E. Vehicle Decal Renewal. 1. Renewal Time Period. Thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the Decal, the Decal holder may apply to renew the decal for an additional twelve (12) month term by submitting a Renewal Application to the MPSD. 2. Renewal Application Requirements. The renewal application shall contain the same information, updated as necessary, as required for the original issuance of the Decal, recited above, and/or any additional information deemed reasonably necessary to carry out and be consistent with the provisions of this Ordinance. 3. Review of Renewal Application. The MPSD shall review each renewal application and, within ten (10) days of the receipt of a completed renewal application, approve or deny it. Appeals of Renewal Applications shall follow the same procedure as appeals of decisions respecting the original issuance of a Decal. 4. Issuance of Renewal Decal. Upon a determination that all required information and documentation has been submitted with the Renewal Application, and the payment of an annual decal fee(s) per vehicle has been made, a Decal shall be issued. 5. Late Decal Renewals. Applications for Renewal Decals submitted after the expiration date shall be assessed a late fee of $50 per Decal sought. Decals not renewed within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be declared void.

Revised 10-17-2013 F. Replacement of Vehicle Decals. If a decal is lost or destroyed, the decal holder may obtain a replacement decal upon payment of the $80.00 replacement fee. If the Decal holder presents the prior decal to the City, the fee shall be $10.00. All replacement requests must be accompanied by supporting documents that all information on the application for the decal sought to be replaced is still accurate, or with the submission of updated information, if there has been a change. G. Prohibition Against Transfer of Taxicab Decals. No Decal holder may sell, bargain, grant, demise, lease option, or assign (hereinafter collectively transfer) a Decal outside the originally assigned company except as provided for in subsection J below. Any attempted transfer not provided for in subsection J shall result in an automatic revocation of the Decal, and the Decal shall be subject to distribution as provided in 6-1423 B of this Ordinance. It shall be a violation of this section for any person to place, or cause another to place, a decal on any vehicle other than the vehicle for which the decal was issued by the office of the MPSD. H. Transfer of Taxicab Vehicle Decals and Wheelchair Accessible Taxicab Vehicle Decals. No Decal shall be transferred to any individual or company whatsoever without having first applied for the transfer in writing to the MPSD and paid a transfer fee which shall be established in the annual City of Savannah Revenue Ordinance. Transfers are subject to all issuance requirements in this Ordinance. Sec. 6-1424. Fixed business address required. Each taxicab company shall, as a condition of receiving one or more taxicab regulatory permits decals to operate a taxicab in Savannah, provide a physical address for the taxicab company. If the company headquarters is to be moved, the owner of the taxicab company shall notify the parking and mobility and parking services supervisor for transportation services of the new location prior to relocation. If the taxicab company is located within the corporate limits of the city, the taxicab company shall conform with all zoning, business tax certificate, and other applicable laws of the city. Each taxicab company shall provide professional customer service by having a landline telephone which is answered by a company representative during listed operating hours. The land line phone may be transferred to a mobile phone and must also be answered by a company representative. Recorded messages during operating hours are prohibited. Each company shall also maintain a BellSouth yellow pages listing which shall include the company's hours of operation. "Two-way dispatch system" means a method of communication by which a dispatcher may communicate simultaneously or individually with the drivers of all vehicles in an organization and for each driver to communicate with the dispatcher, so long as the manner of usage of such device while driving a taxicab does not violate City, State or Federal regulations. For purposes of this definition, the term "organization" refers to the taxicab affiliation and all its affiliates. 6

Revised 10-17-2013 Taxi drivers responding to any request for service received by personal cell phone, flag downs, or any other means other than notification by the dispatcher on duty at the business headquarters shall prior to commencing on the trip immediately notify the dispatcher of the pick-up location and destination. The dispatcher and the driver shall properly log each and every call for service.
(Code 1977, 6-1424; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1424; Ord. of 9-11-2008(1), 1)

Sec. 6-1425. Indemnity for benefit of city. Any taxicab company operating under this article shall hold the city harmless against any and all liability, loss, costs, damages, or expense which may accrue to the city by reason of the negligence, default, or misconduct of the company in connection with the rights granted to such company hereunder. Nothing in this article shall be considered to make the city liable for damages because of any negligent act or omission or commission by any taxicab company, its servants, agents, drivers, or other employees, during the operation by the company of a taxicab business or service, either in respect to injuries to persons or with respect to damage to property which may be sustained.
(Code 1977, 6-1425; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1425)

Sec. 6-1426. Insurance for benefit of passengers. Any taxicab company desiring to do business in the city shall give and maintain a policy of indemnity insurance with an indemnity insurance company authorized to do business in the state for each vehicle in use as a taxicab, or a self insurance certificate issued under state guidelines and regulated by the insurance commissioner of Georgia. Proof of insurance shall be kept in the vehicle and on file at the office of the clerk of council and with the transportation services coordinator supervisor. The minimum insurance coverage shall be in accordance with Georgia state law. Such indemnity insurance shall inure to the benefit of any person who is injured or who sustains damage to property caused by the negligence of a taxicab company or the taxicab driver, whether as servant, agent, or independent contractor.
(Code 1977, 6-1426; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1426)

Sec. 6-1427. Blanket policy. Any company or person operating a taxicab in the city shall give a separate policy of indemnity insurance or certificate of self insurance for each separate taxicab for hire, except where such company or person actually owns or holds legal title to more than one taxicab, in which event, such company or person may give one policy of indemnity insurance or certificate or self insurance covering all the taxicabs actually owned. This latter provision, 7

Revised 10-17-2013 however, shall not apply to any group of persons separately owning taxicabs who may be jointly operating or doing business under a licensed taxicab company name. The taxicab company is responsible for ensuring that individual persons operating taxicabs under said license shall comply with all state laws and local ordinances governing insurance coverage.
(Code 1977, 6-1427; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1427)

Sec. 6-1428. Notice when voided. Each certificate of insurance submitted to the clerk of council and transportation services coordinator prior to the issuance of a taxicab regulatory permits decals shall include, by endorsement to the policy, a statement that written notice shall be given to the city by certified mail 30 days prior to cancellation or upon any material change in coverage.
(Code 1977, 6-1428; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1428)

Division 1. Taxicab Driver's Permit

Sec. 6-1429. Taxicab driver's permit required. Sec. 6-1430. Sec. 6-1431. Sec. 6-1432. Sec. 6-1433. Sec. 6-1434. Sec. 6-1435. Sec. 6-1436. Sec. 6-1437. Sec. 6-1438. Sec. 6-1439. Sec. 6-1440. Application. Physician's certificate required. Qualifications of applicant. Photographs of applicant. Driver's fees. Current state driver's license required. Police investigation of applicant. Examination of applicant; issuance or denial of permit. Permit and notice to be displayed. Alteration of permits or notices prohibited. Permit not transferable.

Sec. 6-1441. Duration of permit. Sec. 6-14426-1445. Reserved.

Sec. 6-1429. Taxicab driver's permit required. No person shall operate a taxicab for hire upon the streets of the City, and no person who owns or operates a taxicab company shall permit a taxicab to be driven, and no taxicab operating under a taxicab company licensed by the city, shall be driven at any time for hire, unless the driver of said taxicab shall have first obtained and shall have then in force a 8

Revised 10-17-2013 taxicab driver's permit issued under the provisions of this article and the certificate of insurance coverage for the vehicle is on file as provided for in this article with proof of such insurance being in the vehicle.
(Code 1977, 6-1429; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1429)

Sec. 6-1430. Application. (a) Any person desiring a permit required by this article shall submit an application in writing to the transportation services coordinator supervisor, on a form to be furnished by the transportation services coordinator supervisor. Such application shall be made under oath and shall state the age of the applicant, the applicant's address, length of time the applicant has resided in the city, whether the applicant has any physical infirmities, current contact information and whether the applicant has been convicted of a violation of any of the laws of the state or of this Code or other ordinances of the city and if so, when and of what offense, and the sentence of the court. The transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee will give administer a written test to each applicant for a new taxicab driver's permit, who must demonstrate a knowledge of state law, city ordinances, and location of streets and highways within the service area. The applicant must have a score of 80 or higher before a taxi permit may be issued. The applicant shall also be required to attend a customer service training course sponsored by the parking services department. The course will require taxicab operators to demonstrate a general knowledge of Savannah history and attractions, the taxicab ordinance policies and procedures, and customer service standards. Taxicab drivers who maintain a valid taxicab driver's permit continuously shall not be required to attend this course for annual permit renewals. All taxicab operators holding a valid permit as of May 4, 2001, shall be required to attend a customer service training course prior to the renewal of the permit in 2002.

(b)

(c)

(d)

(Code 1977, 6-1430; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1430)

Sec. 6-1431. Physician's certificate required. Each application for a driver's permit shall be accompanied by a certificate from a licensed physician of the city certifying that, in his opinion, the applicant is not afflicted with 9

Revised 10-17-2013 any disease or infirmity which might make the applicant an unsafe or unsatisfactory driver. In the case of renewal of a driver's permit, the certificate shall be dated within two years of the date that the application was filed with the transportation services coordinator supervisor. Should the transportation services coordinator supervisor determine that the health of any driver has deteriorated to the extent that it might make the applicant an unsafe or unsatisfactory driver, the driver shall be required to provide an updated physician's certificate upon the request of the transportation services coordinator supervisor within five working days of such request. Failure to comply with the request shall subject such driver to suspension of the driver's permit in accordance with provisions of section 6-1488 of this article. (Code 1977, 6-1431; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1431)

Sec. 6-1432. Qualifications of applicant. An applicant for a driver's permit under this article must: 1. 2. 3. Not be less than 18 years of age. Have no physical infirmities which make said applicant an unsafe or unsatisfactory taxicab driver. Not have been convicted of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating beverages or drugs within two years prior to the date of the application for such permit, or have been convicted of reckless driving within one year prior to the date of the application for such permit, or have been convicted of any of these offenses three or more times within three years prior to the date of the application for such permit. Nor shall a permit be issued to any person who has within three years prior to the date of the application for such permit been convicted of any crime relating to transporting persons for immoral purposes (prostitution, solicitation for prostitution, or any sex-related offense), or who has within three years prior to the date of the application for such permit been convicted of, been on probation, parole, or served time on a sentence for a felony. A plea of nolo contendere to any of the offenses set out in this section shall be deemed a conviction. Be a citizen of the United States or an alien admitted for permanent residence or who as otherwise been granted employment authorization by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Services. Exhibit a proficiency with the English language so as to be able to comprehend and interpret traffic signs, issue written receipts to passengers and obey lawful orders of police and others in lawful authority. 10

4.

5.

Revised 10-17-2013
(Code 1977, 6-1432; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1432)

Sec. 6-1433. Photographs of applicant. Before any permit is granted under this article, the transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee shall take two a photographs of the applicant. One The photograph shall be attached permanently to the driver's permit for display in the vehicle which the applicant is to drive, and the second photograph shall be filed for record by the transportation services coordinator. Photographs are maintained in the transportation office.
(Code 1977, 6-1433; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1433)

Sec. 6-1434. Driver's fees. Before any permit is granted under this article, the following fees shall be paid by the applicant: Background investigation fee. A $10.00 background investigation fee shall be paid by the applicant in accordance with section 6-1436 of this article. (b) (a) Driver permit fee. A driver permit fee in the amount of $10.00 shall be paid by the applicant upon issuance of the permit or $5.00 if applicant brings two pictures of herself/himself to the transportation services coordinator. Permit will be given on a temporary basis when accompanied by a background and driver's history check and a complete physical given by a certified physician. The test for a driver's permit must be taken within thirty days of application. (c) (b) Permit transfer fee. No driver may transfer from one taxicab company to another except upon approval of the transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee and upon payment of a $5.00 10.00 permit fee. (d) (c) Test. Applicants will be issued a taxicab test package and a customer service training manual at no cost. The applicant will be allowed two opportunities to pass the test within a any 90 30-day period. After the second attempt the applicant can retest after 45 days. If applicant fails on the third attempt, applicant can reapply 1 year from date of the third attempt. Applicant must furnish all new documents. (e) (d) A current seven-year certified M.V.R. is required at the time of application and 3yr certified M.V.R. for renewal. This is the responsibility of the permit holder. (a)
(Code 1977, 6-1434; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1434; Ord. of 12-27-2001(3), 1)

11

Revised 10-17-2013 Sec. 6-1435. Current state driver's license required. Any person applying for a taxicab driver's permit under this article must show that a current motor vehicle operator's license has been issued or approved by the State of Georgia, and that the license is not under suspension or revocation.
(Code 1977, 6-1435; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1435)

Sec. 6-1436. Police Investigation of applicant. The transportation services coordinator shall conduct or arrange to be conducted an investigation of review each applicant for a taxicab driver's permit, and a report of such investigation and a copy of the traffic and police record of the applicant, if any, shall be attached to the application. Each applicant must furnish to Mobility & Parking Services an investigation report furnished by a law enforcement agency. No third party background checks will be accepted.
(Code 1977, 6-1436; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1436)

Sec. 6-1437. Examination Review of applicant information; issuance or denial of permit. It shall be the duty of the transportation services coordinator supervisor to examine review the applicant, his reference, police and traffic record, and other vouchers, and thereafter to either grant or refuse the permit. In the event of a refusal to grant a permit, the applicant shall have the right to enter an appeal as provided in section 6-1490.
(Code 1977, 6-1437; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1437)

Sec. 6-1438. Permit and notice to be displayed. (a) The permit issued under the provisions of this article shall be placed on display in the taxicab to be operated by the holder of the permit in a display case or holder designed for that purpose on the dashboard facing the passenger compartment, in clear view of the passengers at all times when the taxicab is for hire. (b) A notice provided by the transportation services coordinator supervisor shall be on display on the front dashboard facing the passenger compartment. The notice shall contain sufficient information to allow the customer to contact the services coordinator supervisor concerning compliments or complaints about the taxicab or operator. 12

Revised 10-17-2013
(Code 1977, 6-1438; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1438)

Sec. 6-1439. Alteration of permits or notices prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person willfully to alter, deface, obliterate, or destroy a taxicab driver's permit or notice to passengers, or cause or allow the same.
(Code 1977, 6-1439; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1439)

Sec. 6-1440. Permit not transferable. Any taxicab driver's permit issued under this article is not transferable from one taxicab driver to another, and is to be used solely by the person to whom it is issued. Any permitted taxicab driver shall notify the transportation services coordinator supervisor prior to beginning employment with another taxicab company.
(Code 1977, 6-1440; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1440)

Sec. 6-1441. Duration of permit. Any taxicab driver's permit shall be in effect for 12 months from the date of issue. Permits may be renewed, upon application and payment of the required fee, for each 12month period thereafter, unless the permit for the preceding period has been revoked or is under suspension.
(Code 1977, 6-1441; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1441)

Sec. 6-1442. Taxi Stand Rules A Driver shall occupy it at the end of the line and move into the first out position on the stand in orderly, single file. Once obtaining the first out or loading position, he shall accept the first request for transportation. (a) A driver shall not perform routine mechanical maintenance on any vehicle while in a taxicab stand. (b) A driver shall occupy a taxicab stand only when available for hire (not while on a telephone or equivalent communication dispatch request, a personal service call, waiting for a return trip, or while on standby). (c) A driver may occupy a taxi stand only when he is on duty or when, for a period not to exceed one hour. (d) A driver shall not leave the taxicab unattended except to assist a passenger while in a taxicab stand. 13

Revised 10-17-2013 (e) A driver shall not refuse a request for service because of the drivers position in line at a taxicab stand; a passenger may select any taxicab in line. (f) A driver may not solicit a passenger away from any other taxicab in line. (g) A driver shall not use any other person to solicit passengers. (h) A driver shall not attempt to refer a passenger to another taxicab or means of transportation, except in the case of a driver occupying a taxicab stand is unable to accommodate the number of passengers requesting service.

Sec. 6-1443. Code of Conduct 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Drivers must be polite, courteous and provide every reasonable assistance to their passengers. Drivers must wear a uniform shirt at all times when driving taxis. They must always be neat and cleanly dressed. Drivers must comply with the rules and by-laws of their radio network, in particular, the provision of a prompt and reliable service. Drivers must drive following all traffic rules, so guaranteeing their passengers a smooth, safe and comfortable journey. Drivers must obey all Passenger Transport Laws, the Regulations and Standards. Drivers must actively support and promote their network and not do anything that could be bad for its image or business. Drivers must promptly hand over lost property items to their authorized network. Drivers must operate air conditioning or heat as requested by the passenger. No taxi driver must offload or transfer to any other person, any request for hire from any intending passenger. Communicate clearly, regularly, politely, and honestly with each other and our customers. Exercise honesty and objectivity in the performance of our duties and responsibilities. Not knowingly engage in acts or activities which are disgraceful or unbecoming.

Sec. 6-1444. - 6-1445. Reserved.

Division 2. Operating Regulations

Sec. 6-1446. Identification and marking generally. Sec. 6-1447. Sec. 6-1448. Sec. 6-1449. Sec. 6-1450. Sec. 6-1451. Number generally. Identification lights. Registration of number and names of owner and operator. Distinctive color scheme. Safe mechanical condition of taxicabs required. 14

Revised 10-17-2013 Sec. 6-1452. Sec. 6-1453. Sec. 6-1454. Sec. 6-1455. Sec. 6-1456. Sec. 6-1457. Sec. 6-1458. Sec. 6-1459. Sec. 6-1460. Sec. 6-1461. Sec. 6-1462. Sec. 6-1463. Sec. 6-1464. Sec. 6-1465. Sec. 6-1466. Sec. 6-1467. Sec. 6-1468. Sec. 6-1469. Sec. 6-1470. Sec. 6-1471. Sec. 6-1472. Sec. 6-1473. Sec. 6-1474. Sec. 6-1475. Sec. 6-1476. Sec. 6-1477. Sec. 6-1478. Sec. 6-1479. Sec. 6-1480. Cleanliness of taxicabs required. State license tag for taxicabs required. Advertising signage. Reserved. Manifest. Taximeter required. Maximum rates of fare; posting required. Receipts. Refusal of passenger to pay legal fare. Stands generally. Telephone stands. Application for taxicab stands. Taxicab parking prohibited in certain areas. Proper dress required. Reserved. Soliciting passengers prohibited. Cruising. Use of designated bus stops prohibited. Carrying more than one fare-paying passenger. Restriction on number of passengers. Refusal to carry orderly passengers prohibited. Prohibitions of drivers. Smoking prohibited in taxicab. Taxicab movement prohibited under certain circumstances. Property left in taxicab by passenger. Sleeping, lounging, or lying in taxicabs prohibited. Radio scanners prohibited. Firearms in taxicabs. Age limit of taxicabs.

Sec. 6-1446. Identification and marking generally. Every taxicab shall have a sign plainly indicating on the door on each side of the vehicle, in letters not less than four inches high, the full name of the taxicab company operating the vehicle, including words such as "Taxicab," "Taxi," or "Cab. Such sign shall be professionally applied and shall be either painted or permanently affixed to each side of the vehicle. 15

Revised 10-17-2013
(Code 1977, 6-1446; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1446; Ord. of 9-11-2008(1), 2)

Sec. 6-1447. Number generally. There shall be shown on the door on each side and on the rear of each taxicab a number at least four inches high, such number to be separate and distinct from that on any other public vehicle or taxicab in the city. Such number shall be assigned to such taxicab and the owner thereof by the transportation services coordinator supervisor. Such number shall be professionally applied and shall be either painted or permanently affixed thereon. The
company phone number should be permanently affixed on each side of the vehicle.
(Code 1977, 6-1447; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1447)

Sec. 6-1448. Identification lights. Every taxicab operated on the streets of the city shall display, as a part of its equipment, an identification insignia on the top, which shall be electrically lit at night, and which top light shall carry either the name of the company operating the taxicab, the word "Taxi" or the word "Taxicab," or "Cab," provided, however, that during the period in which a taxicab is occupied and under hire by a passenger or passengers, the identification insignia on the top of the vehicle shall not be lit.
(Code 1977, 6-1448; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1448)

Sec. 6-1449. Registration of number and names of owner and operator. The number assigned a taxicab in accordance with this article together with the names of the owner and operator of the taxicab shall be registered annually and controlled by with the transportation services coordinator supervisor in a book to be kept for such purpose. Failure to register each year may result in loss of registration number(s) and distinct color scheme.
(Code 1977, 6-1449; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1449)

Sec. 6-1450. Distinctive color scheme. No two taxicab companies or taxicab operators may operate taxicabs of the same color scheme. Color schemes shall be recorded and controlled by the transportation services coordinator supervisor
(Code 1977, 6-1450; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1450)

16

Revised 10-17-2013 Sec. 6-1451. Safe mechanical condition of taxicabs required. Every taxicab operated on the streets of the city shall be maintained in a safe mechanical condition, with all safety and pollution control equipment remaining intact and operative at all times when the taxicab is in service.
(Code 1977, 6-1451; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1451)

Sec. 6-1452. Cleanliness of taxicabs required. Each vehicle operating under this article shall be kept painted and in a clean sanitary condition, free of litter and debris and at all times suitable for public transportation of passengers.
(Code 1977, 6-1452; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1452)

Sec. 6-1453. State license tag for taxicabs required. Prior to the use and operation of any vehicle as a taxicab under the provisions of this article, the owner of said vehicle shall secure and display on the vehicle a current Georgia Taxi Tag license registration tag.
(Code 1977, 6-1453; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1453)

Sec. 6-1454. Advertising signage. Rooftop advertising signs are the only form of advertising signage permitted on taxicabs. Signs must be professionally manufactured, two-sided signs, no longer than 54 inches, no wider than 17 inches, and no higher than 16 inches. Content shall be professionally produced and contained within the confines of the sign. The taxi top sign shall also have a 911 flashing light for safety reasons. The light shall be such that it can be covertly activated from the driver's position and will alert passersby or police that something is wrong. The rooftop signs will be reviewed for content by the parking and mobility and parking services supervisor for transportation. If there is a dispute between the city and the taxi owner concerning content, a three-person panel will be assembled to adjudicate the matter. The panel shall consist of a taxi community representative, a city employee from parking and

17

Revised 10-17-2013 mobility and parking services, and a representative from Metro SCMPD. Until the matter is settled the rooftop signs in question will not be permitted to be displayed.
(Ord. of 9-11-2008(1), 3)

Sec. 6-1455. Reserved.

Sec. 6-1456. Manifest. Each taxicab driver, operator dispatcher, or company shall maintain a daily manifest upon which shall be recorded all trips made by each vehicle each day, showing time and place of origin, destination of each trip and amount of fare. All such completed manifests shall be returned to the taxicab company by the driver at least weekly or shall be maintained by the company at its offices at the conclusion of each driver's daily tour of duty. Each taxicab company shall retain and preserve all driver's manifests for at least 90 days and said manifests shall be made available to the transportation services coordinator supervisor, any official of the revenue department, or to any officer of the police department at all reasonable times. The manifest shall be kept in a legible condition.
(Code 1977, 6-1456; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1456)

Sec. 6-1457. Taximeter required. All taxicabs operated under the authority of this article shall be equipped with a taximeter fastened in front of the passengers, visible to them at all times day and night; and, after sundown, the face of the taximeter shall be illuminated. The taximeter shall be operated by a mechanism of standard design and construction. Any such taximeter shall be sealed at all points and connections by the transportation coordinator or representatives which, if manipulated, would affect its correct reading and recording. Each taximeter shall have thereon a signal to denote when the vehicle is employed and when it is not employed, and it shall be the duty of the driver to activate the signal of such taximeter into a nonrecording position at the termination of each trip. Any taximeter shall be subject to inspection at any time by the services coordinator supervisor or designee.
(Code 1977, 6-1457; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1457; Ord. of 12-27-2001(3), 2)

Sec. 6-1458. Maximum rates of fare; posting required. (a) Maximum meter rates. As a condition of licensing by the city and operating within the city, all taxicab companies and drivers shall charge no more than the following 18

Revised 10-17-2013 schedule of fares for all trips originating or terminating within said city, except as otherwise provided in subsection (b): (1) The maximum meter rate shall be as follows: a. A rate of $2.00 $3.00 for the first one-sixth fifth of a mile; b. A rate of $0.33 $0.42 per one-sixth fifth of a mile thereafter; c. Should a taximeter charge for increments of a mile differently from those in subsections a. and b., the maximum rates shall nevertheless not exceed $3.50 for the first mile and $1.80 per mile thereafter. d. The mileage component of the taxi fare structure shall be adjusted annually, on March 1 of each year based on the change in the CPI (Consumer Price Index) the previous calendar year. (2) One dollar for each passenger in excess of one riding in the vehicle on the same trip. (3) Twenty-one Twenty-five dollars per hour waiting time or portion thereof; $0.35 per minute for traffic delays. (4) There shall be no charge for baggage which can be transported within the interior and/or cargo area of any taxicab. (5) A fuel surcharge shall be permitted when local gasoline prices reach certain levels as reported by the American Automobile Association (AAA). When local regular gasoline prices reach $3.50 a gallon, a $1.00 surcharge may be added to the fare, and when local regular gasoline prices reach $4.00 a gallon, a $2.00 surcharge may be added to the fare. This surcharge provision of the ordinance shall expire at the time of the regular CPI increase in March of 2009 be reviewed annually by the Mobility & Parking Services Director, with input from TAC. (6) The parking and mobility and parking services director shall have the authority to adopt special temporary rates and issue special temporary taxi permits during certain festivals to allow for the efficient moving of festival goers and prevent overcharging.
(b)

Airport maximum flat rate fares. Taxicab trips between (to and from) the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and locations within Savannah/Chatham County and other common destinations shall be charged a flat-rate fare based on the number of passengers entering the taxicab at the beginning of the trip. Such fares shall be no greater than as shown in the following schedule provided, however, in addition to such flat rate fare, any airport surcharge fee to be remitted to the Savannah Airport Commission in accordance with procedures established by the commission may be charged to each passenger: Current Flat Rate

Location

19

Revised 10-17-2013 HISTORIC DISTRICTAll Locations 17 Hundred 90 Inn 1870 House 1895 Inn 912 Barnard Victorian B&B Amethyst Inn at Sarah's Garden Azalea Inn Ballastone Inn Bed & Breakfast Inn Best Western Historic District Broughton Street Guesthouse Catherine Ward House City Hen Bed & Breakfast Claudia's Manor Colonial Park Inn Columbia Square Inn Comer House Comfort Suites Cooper House Bed & Breakfast Country Inn & Suites Courtyard by Marriott 20 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Days Inn/Days Suites DeSoto Hilton Doubletree Hotel East Bay Inn East Liberty Inn East Taylor Street B & B Economy Inn Eliza Thompson House Foley House Inn Forsyth Park Inn Four Points by Sheraton Gaston Gallery Bed & Breakfast Gastonian Habersham Inn Hamilton-Turner Inn Hampton Inn-Historic District Hampton Inn & Suites Hilton Garden Inn Holiday Inn Express Hyatt Regency Savannah Inn at Ellis Square 21 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Joan's on Jones B&B Kehoe House Mansion on Forsyth Park Marshall House McMillan Inn Mulberry Oglethorpe Lodge Olde Harbour Inn Park Avenue Manor B&B Planter's Inn President's Quarters Quality Inn/Heart of Savannah River Street Inn River Street Villas Savannah Marriott Riverfront Savannah Suites Spanish Moss Inn Staybridge Suites Tattnall House The Old Savannah Inn The Promenade 22 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Thunderbird Inn Under the Rainbow Historic Inn Whitaker-Huntingdon Inn Zeigler House Inn HUTCHINSON ISLANDAll Locations Westin Savannah Harbor Resort SKIDAWAY ISLANDAll Locations The Landings SOUTHSIDE SAVANNAH Baymont Inn & Suites Best Western Central Budget Inn Clubhouse Inn of Savannah Comfort Inn & Suites Country Inn & Suites Midtown Courtyard by Marriott Days Inn Southside Days Inn/Oglethorpe Mall Econo Lodge Midtown Extended Stay America Fairfield Inn by Marriott 23 $36.00 $36.00 $41.00 $36.00 $41.00 $36.00 $36.00 $41.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $60.00 $34.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00 $28.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Gateway Inn Guesthouse Inn Hampton Inn Midtown Hilton Garden Inn Holiday Inn Midtown Homewood Suites LaQuinta Inn-Midtown Masters Inn Suites Oglethorpe Inn & Suites Relax Inn Residence Inn Marriott Springhill Suites Suburban Extended Stay Towne Place Suites by Marriott Villager Lodge I-95 & 204 INTERCHANGE Best Value Inn Best Western-Savannah Gateway Clarion Inn & Suites Clean Stay USA Comfort Suites-Gateway 24 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $41.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $36.00 $41.00 $36.00 $41.00 $41.00 $41.00 $41.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Country Heart Inn Country Inn & Suites Days Inn Savannah I-95 Econolodge Fairfield Inn Hampton Inn-Gateway Holiday Inn Express Howard Johnson's Knight's Inn LaQuinta InnSavannah Microtel Inn Quality Inn & Suites Ramada InnSavannah Gateway Red Roof Inn Rodeway Inn San Boutique Hotel & Suites Sleep Inn Springhill Suites Travel Lodge Wingate WEST CHATHAM COUNTY/AIRPORT$8.50 Unless indicated below 25 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00 $27.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Baymont Inn & Suites (Garden City) Best Western (Pooler) Cambria Suites Candlewood Suites Comfort Inn (PW) Comfort Inn & Suites (Pooler) Comfort Inn Conference Center(PW) Country Inn & SuitesAirport Country Inn & Suites Savannah North (PW) Days InnAirport Days Inn (PW) Econolodge (Pooler Fairfield Inn Four Points by Sheraton Hampton Inn Savannah North (PW) Hawthorn Suites Hilton Garden Inn Holiday Inn Express (PW) Inn at Mulberry (PW) Inn Town Suites (GC) Jameson Inn (Pooler) 26 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $15.00 $15.00 $10.00

Revised 10-17-2013 LaQuinta Inn & Suites (Pooler) Magnolia Inn (Pooler) Masters Inn (Garden City) Microtel Inn & Suites (Pooler) Quail Run Lodge Quality Inn (PW) Quality Inn Conference Center (Pooler) Ramada Limited (Pooler) Ramada Inn (PW) Red Roof Inn Sleep Inn (PW) Sleep Inn & Suites (Pooler) Springhill Suites Staybridge Suites Super 8 (PW) Towne Place Suites Travelodge (Pooler) Wingate Inn Wingate Inn (PW) TYBEE ISLANDS & BEACHES Atlantis Inn 27 $53.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $15.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Beachside Colony Bluebird B & B Dunes Inn & Suites Georgeanne Inn Howard Johnson/Admirals Inn Hunter House B & B Lighthouse Inn Ocean Plaza Beach Resort Outdoor Inn Royal Palm Motel Sandcastle Inn Savannah Beach Inn Seventeenth Street Inn Sunrise Motel/Rodeway Inn Tybee Island Inn Tybee Moons MILITARY LOCATIONS Fort StewartFront Gate Fort StewartBack Gate Fort StewartHousing Hunter Army Air Field 28 $75.00 $75.00 $75.00 $36.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00 $53.00

Revised 10-17-2013 Marine Corps Air Station Parris Island $80.00 $80.00

(2)

Five dollars within Georgia and $10.00 for out of state locations for each passenger in excess of one riding in the vehicle on the same trip. Ten dollars for Hilton Head (out of state) does not apply until the third and subsequent passengers. Twenty-one Twenty-five dollars per hour waiting time; provided, however, that there shall be no charge for traffic delays. In the event that two or more passengers enter the same taxicab at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and the destinations of such passengers are not the same, all passengers shall pay a prorated portion of the flat rate fare, and the passenger or passengers whose destination is to a location other than one listed in this section shall pay the fare computed on the meter for the remaining segment of the trip starting at the final stop at a listed destination. For taxicab trips which neither originate nor terminate at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, fares shall be metered, with rates limited to the maximums shown in subsection (a) above. There shall be no charge for baggage which can be transported within the interior and/or cargo area of any taxicab.

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(c) (d)

Travel to passenger location. No charge shall be made for time and/or mileage for traveling to the location of a prospective passenger. Posting rates required. No owner or driver of a taxicab shall charge a greater amount for the use of a taxicab than the published and printed rates which shall be displayed within and on each vehicle, as provided below: (1) Each taxicab operating within Savannah shall have a rate card setting forth its rates for mileage, waiting time, extra passengers, excess baggage, and airport flat rates. Said rate card shall be printed in standard block letters showing the taxicab company name not less than three-quarters inch in height, and the rates not less than three-eighths inch in height. The rate card shall be displayed within the vehicle in such place as to be conspicuous and in view of all passengers, subject to the approval of the transportation supervisor.

29

Revised 10-17-2013 (2) Each taxicab shall have painted or affixed by decal on the exterior of the left and right rear doors its schedule of meter rates and the statement "Airport FlatRate Card Provided on Request," or equivalent wording as approved by the transportation services coordinator, in standard block letters not less than one inch in height. Such letters shall be in a color which contrasts with the vehicle color, subject to approval of the transportation services coordinator supervisor.

(Code 1977, 6-1458; Ord. of 3-2-1995(2), 1; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1458; Ord. of 7-8-2004, 1; Ord. of 9-1-2005(3), 1; Ord. of 9-29-2005; Ord. of 10-27-2005(2), 1; Ord. of 12-13-2005(4), 1; Ord. of 10-11-2007(2), 1; Ord of 9-11-2008(1), 4; Ord. of 9-11-2008(2), 1)

Sec. 6-1459. Receipts/Methods of payments. The driver of any taxicab shall, upon demand by the passenger, render to such passenger a receipt for the amount charged, on which shall be the name of the taxicab company, the taxicab number, name and permit number of the driver, trip origin and destination, amount of charges, and date of transaction. Every driver and/or taxicab doing business shall accept major credit cards in addition to cash. The passenger shall be charged a convenience fee for the use of a credit card. The fee shall be no greater than $2.25 per transaction.
(Code 1977, 6-1459; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1459)

Sec. 6-1460. Refusal of passenger to pay legal fare. It shall be unlawful for any person to refuse to pay the legal fare of any vehicle having a valid taxicab driver's permit under this article after having hired the same, and it shall be unlawful for any person to hire any taxicab with intent to defraud the person from whom it is hired of the value of such service.
(Code 1977, 6-1460; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1460)

Sec. 6-1461. Taxi Stands generally. No parking shall be permitted in the corporate limits of the city except at such stands as may be established by the city, which taxicab stands shall be designated by signs. Whenever any such stand is established, such stand may be used by taxicabs upon a rotation basis of "first come, first served. Taxicab drivers shall pull into stands from the rear 30

Revised 10-17-2013 and shall advance forward as the taxicabs ahead depart. Drivers shall stay within five feet of their cabs and shall not solicit passengers or engage in loud or boisterous talk while at the taxi stand. Nothing in this section shall be construed as preventing a passenger from boarding any taxicab of choice that is parked at a taxicab stand.
(Code 1977, 6-1461; Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1461)

Sec. 6-1462. Telephone stands. It shall be unlawful for any person to install or attach any telephone or similar device on any telephone post, telegraph post, tree post, or on the side of any building in any street, sidewalk, alley or lane in the city for the purpose of using such telephone in connection with the taxicab business, unless a place in the street adjacent to such telephone has been designated a regular stand for taxicabs. The operator or driver of taxicabs holding a valid taxicab driver's permit under this article shall not use taxicab stands as base stations to dispatch other units.
(Code 1977, 6-1462; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1462)

Sec. 6-1463. Application for taxicab stands. Any person desiring to have a place designated as a regular stand for taxicabs in the city or as a telephone stand shall make application by written petition to the mayor and aldermen for the establishment of such taxicab stand, setting out where such stand is desired to be set apart. The written permission of the property owner whose property abuts shall be first obtained and filed with the application.
(Code 1977, 6-1463; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1463)

Sec. 6-1464. Taxicab parking prohibited in certain areas. It shall be unlawful for taxicabs to use or park in any area or stand designated for the exclusive use of airline limousines and no parking shall be permitted at the International Airport except at such stands as may be designated by the mayor and aldermen upon the recommendation of the airport commission for the exclusive use of designated companies and by no other company or persons.
(Code 1977, 6-1464; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1464)

Sec. 6-1465. Proper dress required. While operating a taxicab for hire on the streets of the city, a taxicab driver shall be properly attired in accordance with the following standards: (a) A driver's clothing and shoes shall be neat and in good repair, free of holes, tears, fading, stains, or soil. A uniform shirt, unique to each company, shall be 31

Revised 10-17-2013 worn at all times when the taxicab is in operation. The design of the shirt must be approved by the parking and mobility and parking services supervisor for transportation. The parking mobility and parking services supervisor's decision may be appealed as provided in section 6-1490 Collarless shirts, bare midriff or backless attire, shorts, cutoff jeans, and miniskirts are prohibited while the taxicab is for hire; provided, however, during hot summer days shorts may be worn if the length is not more than two inches above the knee. Sandals or open toe shoes are prohibited. Proper hygiene is required.

(b)

(c)

(Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1465; Ord. of 12-27-2001(3), 3; Ord. of 9-11-2008(1), 5)

Sec. 6-1466. Reserved. Sec. 6-1467. Soliciting passengers prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to solicit passengers verbally or by gesture, directly or indirectly, at any taxicab stand or upon the streets of the city. (a) Unlawful solicitation occurs when a driver solicits passengers: (i) from a location other than the driver's compartment or the immediate vicinity of the driver's Vehicle for Hire; (ii) in a way that annoys or obstructs the movement of a person, or follows any person for the purpose of unlawful soliciting; (iii) in a loud, boisterous or annoying manner of voice, or by sign, or in any other annoying manner; or (iv) by paying an employee of another business to solicit passengers for or give preferential treatment in directing passengers to the driver's Vehicle for Hire. (b) No person shall solicit Vehicle-for-Hire services at any hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, restaurant, retail or wholesale facility, government facility or center, any entertainment facility or center, transportation facility or center, or any other location of public gathering. Agents or employees, or skycaps or bellmen, as consideration for diverting or attempting to divert a passenger or passengers from one hotel, motel, or restaurant to another hotel, motel, or restaurant.

(Code 1977, 6-1467; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1467)

Sec. 6-1468. Cruising. 32

Revised 10-17-2013 Taxicab drivers shall be permitted to drive such taxicabs about the streets of the city for the purpose of picking up and transporting passengers.
(Code 1977, 6-1468; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1468)

Sec. 6-1469. Use of designated bus stops prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any driver of any taxicab to park or stand at any bus stop designated for use by the Chatham Area Transit Authority with the exception of designated areas on Broughton Street.
(Code 1977, 6-1469; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1469)

Sec. 6-1470. Carrying more than one fare-paying passenger. It shall be unlawful for the operator of any taxicab to pick up a second passenger or to permit any other person to occupy or ride in the taxicab when the same is occupied by a farepaying passenger or by members of the party of the fare-paying passenger. Unless otherwise as described in Section 6-1458 (C)4
(Code 1977, 6-1470; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1470; Ord. of 12-27-2001, 4)

Sec. 6-1471. Restriction on number of passengers. No driver shall permit more persons to be carried in a taxicab as passengers than the rated seating capacity of his taxicab. A child in arms shall not be counted as a passenger.
(Code 1977, 6-1471; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1471)

Sec. 6-1472. Refusal to carry orderly passengers prohibited. No driver shall refuse or neglect to convey any orderly person or persons, upon request, unless previously engaged or unable or forbidden by the provisions of this article to do so.
(Code 1977, 6-1472; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1472)

Sec. 6-1473. Prohibitions of drivers. It shall be unlawful for any driver of a taxicab to solicit business for any hotel or other business, or to attempt to divert patronage from one hotel or business to another. It shall be unlawful for a driver to solicit business from any employee of any hotel or other such business. Neither shall such driver engage in selling or soliciting for the sale of intoxicating beverages or illegal drugs, or solicit for prostitution, or use his vehicle for any purpose other than the transportation of passengers. Unless otherwise as described in Section 6-1454
(Code 1977, 6-1473; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1473)

Sec. 6-1474. Smoking prohibited in taxicab. 33

Revised 10-17-2013 It shall be unlawful to smoke in any taxicab operated upon the streets of the city at all times, whether or not such taxicab is occupied by a passenger. Vaporized and electronic cigarettes are prohibited.
(Code 1977, 6-1474; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1474; Ord. of 9-11-2008(1), 6)

Sec. 6-1475. Taxicab movement prohibited under certain circumstances. No driver shall collect fares, make change, or take on or discharge passengers while his taxicab is in motion.
(Code 1977, 6-1475; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1475)

Sec. 6-1476. Property left in taxicab by passenger. Any taxicab driver or operator discovering in any taxicab under such driver's or operator's control personal property, which was lost or left therein by a passenger of such taxicab, shall report such loss and deliver all such property to the office of the taxicab company within 12 hours after the discovery of such property. The driver's report shall include brief particulars to enable the company to identify the owner of the property. The company shall retain the property on behalf of the owner for at least 60 days.
(Code 1977, 6-1476; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1476)

Sec. 6-1477. Sleeping, lounging, or lying in taxicabs prohibited. While any taxicab is parked at a stand or is otherwise in service, the driver will remain awake and alert at all times. Sleeping, lounging in a reclining posture, or lying in the taxicab is prohibited.
(Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1477)

Sec. 6-1478. Radio scanners prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any taxicab driver, owner, or operator to use a radio frequency scanner or to be in possession of a radio frequency scanner in a taxicab or in company headquarters, and no such scanner shall be in the possession of any taxicab driver, owner, or operator at any other location where such scanner is intended to be used to monitor the radio transmissions of other taxicab companies.
(Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1478)

Sec. 6-1479. Firearms in taxicabs. (a) Any driver possessing a firearm in a taxicab must have a current valid State of Georgia firearms permit and written permission of the taxicab company. Such driver shall furnish the transportation services coordinator supervisor a copy of the firearms permit, the brand name, serial number, type, and caliber of the firearm, and the

34

Revised 10-17-2013 original written permission statement of the taxicab company, which statement shall be signed by the owner or chief operating officer of the company. Possession of a firearm on Savannah International Airport property is prohibited at all times.

(b)

(Ord. of 4-11-1996, 1; Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1479)

Sec. 6-1480. Age limit of taxicabs. Every taxicab operating on the streets of the city shall be no more than ten twelve model years older than the current calendar year on or after January 1, 2005.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1480)

Division 3. Enforcement
Sec. 6-1481. Vehicle inspections required. Sec. 6-1482. Sec. 6-1483. Sec. 6-1484. Sec. 6-1485. Sec. 6-1486. Sec. 6-1487. Sec. 6-1488. Sec. 6-1489. Sec. 6-1490. Sec. 6-1491. Additional vehicle inspection. Taximeter inspection. Citation for violation of taxicab ordinance. Failure to pay fee. Deadline decal. Authority for removal of taxicabs from streets. Suspension of the driver's permit. Driving after suspension or revocation prohibited. Taxicab appeals panel. Revocation of driver's permit.

Sec. 6-1481. Vehicle inspections required. Each taxicab shall be inspected by the transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee for compliance with the provisions of this article and shall pass such inspection before the vehicle may be used as a taxicab in the city. Each taxicab involved in an accident shall be inspected by the transportation services coordinator supervisor before it may be returned to service transporting passengers for hire. Each taxicab shall be inspected by the transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee at least once annually to ensure continued maintenance of safe operating condition and continued compliance with the provisions of this article.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1481)

35

Revised 10-17-2013 Sec. 6-1482. Additional vehicle inspection. Any taxicab shall be subject to inspection at any time and, upon discovery of any violation of this division or other applicable laws, the transportation services coordinator supervisor shall take appropriate remedial action as authorized under this article. The transportation services coordinator supervisor shall establish a systematic procedure to perform random, unannounced inspections of taxicabs to enforce compliance with this article and all other applicable laws. By accepting a taxicab regulatory permit and/or a taxicab driver's permit to operate taxicab service in Savannah, each taxicab owner/operator consents to unannounced, randomly selected inspections to ensure compliance with this and other applicable ordinances.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1482)

Sec. 6-1483. Taximeter inspection. Pursuant to sections 6-1457 and 6-1483 of this article, any taximeter shall be subject to inspection at any time and, upon discovery of any violation or any inaccuracy, the transportation services coordinator supervisor shall notify the operator of said taxicab to cease operation immediately, which action shall be taken. The taxicab shall be kept out of service until the taximeter is repaired, the required working condition is restored, and the taximeter is resealed by the transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1483)

Sec. 6-1484. Citation for violation of taxicab ordinance. The transportation services coordinator supervisor, or other agents authorized by the mobility & parking services director, shall have the authority to cite or subpoena taxicab operators and/or taxicab company owners for violations of this article. The fees for violations of this article shall be as provided by ordinance and published in the annual City of Savannah revenue ordinance.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1484; Ord. of 12-27-2001(3), 5)

Sec. 6-1485. Failure to pay fee. When any taxicab company owner or taxicab operator fails to pay a fine in accordance with section 6-1484 the Fees for Taxicab Ordinance Violations as specified by ordinance and published in the annual revenue ordinance within ten calendar days after the notice was issued, a late payment penalty shall be added to the violation fee amount as specified by ordinance and published in the annual revenue ordinance. A taxicab operator or taxicab company owner may appeal citations to the taxicab appeals panel as provided under section 6-1490 and/or the transportation supervisor. In the case that a taxicab operator or taxicab company owner submits a written appeal to the

36

Revised 10-17-2013 mobility & parking services director before the end of the tenth calendar day from the date of the citation, no late payment penalty fee shall be applied.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1485)

Sec. 6-1486. Deadline decal. The transportation services coordinator supervisor or designee, upon observing violations of division 2 of this article, which deals with the physical condition of taxicabs, shall place a deadline decal on the windshield of the vehicle, said the decal shall to list all violations. No driver or other unauthorized person shall remove or deface a deadline decal. No driver shall use a vehicle to transport passengers for hire while a deadline decal is in place. The transportation services coordinator supervisor will remove the deadline decal after correction of all listed violations.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1486)

Sec. 6-1487. Authority for removal of taxicabs from streets. The transportation services coordinator supervisor shall have the authority to remove from operation on the streets of the city any vehicle used as a taxicab which is in violation of this article and to prohibit operation of such taxicab until all deficiencies have been corrected. An order of the transportation services coordinator supervisor to remove a vehicle from the city streets may be appealed to the mobility & parking services director and, if so desired, appealed again to the taxicab appeals panel as provided in section 6-1490. Until the appeal has been heard and the taxicab appeals panel has ruled otherwise, The taxicab ordered to be removed from service shall not be used for operations. unless otherwise authorized in writing by the director or the transportation supervisor.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1487)

Sec. 6-1488. Suspension of the driver's permit.

The transportation services coordinator supervisor shall have the authority to recommend to the mobility & parking services director suspension of a taxicab driver's permit for the following

reasons: (i) the driver is charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating beverages or drugs, or reckless driving; (ii) making any false statement in the application for the permit; (iii) operating a taxicab in violation of any provisions of this article or applicable state law. The Mobility & parking services director, after hearing evidence from both the transportation services coordinator supervisor and the taxicab driver or his representative, shall have authority to suspend the taxicab driver's permit for a period of up to six months.

37

Revised 10-17-2013 If a taxicab driver is suspended three two times within any three two year period, the fourth third such suspension within said three two-year period shall be for a period of one year. result in a two year suspension The mobility & parking services director will promptly notify the taxicab driver in writing of any suspension, in which case the taxicab driver shall have the immediate right to appeal in writing, but within ten days, in accordance with section 6-1490.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1488)

Sec. 6-1489. Driving after suspension or revocation prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle for hire or taxicab for the carriage of passengers during any period in which his permit to do so is suspended or revoked in accord with the provisions of this article. Once a company/owner is notified by Mobility & Parking Services of a drivers status and found in violation for allowing a driver to operate with a suspended or revoked permit the company/owner will be issued a subpoena to court. In addition, the driver will be issued a subpoena to court.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1489)

Sec. 6-1490. Taxicab appeals panel. The taxicab appeals panel shall meet as needed but no less frequently than once annually to review unresolved appeals of permit denials, citations, suspensions, and taxicab removal orders pursuant to this article. The taxicab appeals panel members shall be appointed for four-year terms by the city manager, and members of the taxicab appeals panel shall serve as members of this appeals panel without pay or compensation of any kind from the City of Savannah. The taxicab appeals panel shall be comprised of the following five members: A taxicab company owner headquartered within the limits of the City of Savannah (b) A taxicab operator who resides in the corporate limits of Savannah and who is not in the employ of the taxicab company owner on the taxicab appeals panel (c) A representative of the hospitality industry; (d) The assistant city manager Bureau Chief for management and financial services of the City of Savannah; and (e) An independent citizen. Upon the receipt of a written appeal of the mobility & parking services director's ruling, the taxicab appeals panel shall convene with reasonable notice to hear evidence from both the transportation services coordinator supervisor/mobility & parking services director and the taxicab driver or his/her representative. By a majority vote of the entire body, the 38 (a)

Revised 10-17-2013 taxicab appeals panel may: i) uphold the parking service director's ruling, ii) overturn the parking service director's ruling, iii) reduce the parking service director's ruling and impose a lesser penalty authorized under this article. Decisions of the taxicab appeals panel may be appealed to the city manager, whose decision shall be final.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1490)

Sec. 6-1491. Revocation of driver's permit. In the event that any driver holding a permit under this article at any time ceases to meet the qualifications described in section 6-1432, or fails to correct satisfactorily any false statement made in the application for the permit, or fails to operate his taxicab in accordance with the provisions of this article, upon recommendation of the taxicab appeals panel, the city manager shall be empowered to revoke permanently the permit or to restore the same after a hearing as provided in section 6-1490.
(Ord. of 5-3-2001, 6-1491)

39