**** NS GOVERNMENT Media Release

New taxi by-law and administrative order now in effect

Monday, Sept. 30, 2019 (Halifax, NS) – The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents the new taxi by-law and administrative order are now in effect.

On Saturday, Sept. 28, the taxi zones that previously restricted pick ups and drop offs were eliminated. Taxis are now permitted to pick up and drop off passengers anywhere in the municipality.

Some of the other changes include:

Licence cap increase : The number of owner licences has increased from 1,000 to 1,600. Those drivers currently on the wait list will be offered a taxi owner’s licence when their name has been reached. This process is expected to take a number of years before the wait list is exhausted.

: The number of owner licences has increased from 1,000 to 1,600. Those drivers currently on the wait list will be offered a taxi owner’s licence when their name has been reached. This process is expected to take a number of years before the wait list is exhausted. Mandatory training : Drivers are now required to complete mandatory training, including cultural sensitivity, once it becomes available. They will also be required to complete a winter driving course.

: Drivers are now required to complete mandatory training, including cultural sensitivity, once it becomes available. They will also be required to complete a winter driving course. Debit, credit, and GPS requirement: Taxi owners will have six months to install these devices in their vehicles.

For more information, please visit https://www.halifax.ca/business/permits-licences/taking-a-taxi-or-a-limousine.