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Return to TAC Dec. 13, 2010, agenda

SEC. 1113. - TAXI AND RAMP TAXI EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS.

(a)     [start addition] Vehicle Operation. [end addition]

(1)      Safe Operating Condition [start addition] [end addition] All Taxis and Ramp Taxis must be maintained in a safe operating condition. Except as otherwise specified herein, all Taxi and Ramp Taxi Medallion Holders and Color Schemes are jointly and severally responsible for ensuring that all Taxis and Ramp Taxis for which they hold permits or with which they are affiliated meet all equipment requirements listed in this Section. In addition to imposing any applicable penalty for non-compliance with requirements, The SFMTA may remove any vehicle from service for any violation of this Section until the violation is corrected and the vehicle is inspected and approved by the SFMTA.

[start addition] (2) Operation by Driver Permit Holders.   No Permit Holder shall knowingly allow the use of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle as a motor vehicle for hire by any person who does not hold a Driver Permit and California drivers license. [end addition]

 

(b)   Equipment Placement. The placement [begin deletion] or display [end deletion] of any equipment [start addition] or information [end addition] required by this Section 1113 shall not interfere with the Driver's visibility or the operation of any O.E.M. equipment.

 

(c)   Exterior Display of Identifying Information. [start addition] Every Taxi or Ramp Taxi shall have the following information displayed on the exterior of the vehicle: [end addition]

 

(1)   Vehicle Number.

(A)   [begin deletion] All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall have the [end deletion] [start addition] The [end addition] Vehicle Number [begin deletion] painted on or applied with adhesive on the vehicle [end deletion] in numerals of a color which contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle [begin deletion] . Such number shall be [end deletion] at least four inches high and positioned directly under the windows on or within six inches of the forward most portion of both front doors and on the [begin deletion] center, lower left or lower right corner of the [end deletion] rear facing portion of the trunk lid of the vehicle.

(B)   The Vehicle Number [begin deletion] shall be painted [end deletion] on the roof, hood or trunk of the vehicle in [start addition] numbers at least 18 inches in length of [end addition] a color that contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle. [begin deletion] The numbers shall be a minimum of 18 inches in length and must fill the entire width of the roof, hood or trunk. [end deletion] If the numbers are displayed on the roof, they shall be mounted and centered directly behind the top light.

(2)   San Francisco Taxicab. The words "San Francisco Taxicab" with letters at least two inches [start addition] high [end addition] [begin deletion] in height [end deletion] , in a color which contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle [begin deletion] shall be painted or attached by the use of adhesive letters [end deletion] on both sides of the vehicle's rear quarter panels and to the trunk directly above the rear bumper.

(3)   Inspection Certificate. [begin deletion] All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall at all times conspicuously display a [end deletion] [start addition] A [end addition] current and valid [begin deletion] SFIA [end deletion] decal indicating satisfactory completion of vehicle inspection [begin deletion] as required by Section 1113(s) [end deletion] .

(4)   Trade Name. [begin deletion] Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have the [end deletion] [start addition] The [end addition] name of the Color Scheme with which the [start addition] vehicle’s Medallion [end addition] [begin deletion] permit [end deletion] is affiliated [begin deletion] painted [end deletion] in letters at least two inches in height on the exterior of the side doors of each side of the vehicle.

(5)   Trade Dress. The exterior of every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be well painted with the color(s) of the Color Scheme with which it is affiliated.

[start addition] (6) Medallion.   During all hours of operation of a Motor Vehicle for Hire the Medallion shall be placed in the front windshield in such a manner that the Medallion number shall be clearly visible from the exterior of the vehicle. [end addition]

[start addition] (7) Vehicle Wrap Advertising. The design of any vehicle wrap advertising must be approved in advance by the SFMTA, and shall not include wrapping of windows.  Any wrap design that covers identifying information listed in Section 1113(c)(1) shall reproduce such Vehicle Number in numerals at least eight inches high, and any wrap design that covers information required in Sections 1113 (c)(2) or (c)(4) shall reproduce such information in characters at least four inches high. [end addition]

            [start addition] (8) Tobacco Advertising Ban. [end addition]

[start addition] (1)   Color Schemes and Medallion Holders are prohibited from placing or maintaining, or causing or allowing to be placed or maintained, any advertising or promotion of cigarettes or tobacco products on any Taxi or Ramp Taxi. [end addition]

[start addition] (2)   For the purposes of this subsection, "tobacco product" shall mean any substance containing tobacco leaf, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, pipes, tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco and dipping tobacco. For the purposes of this Section, "promote" or "promotion" shall include a display of any logo, brand name, character, graphics, colors, scenes, or designs that are trademarks of a particular brand of tobacco product. [end addition]

 

 

(d)   Interior Display of Information. [start addition] Every Taxi or Ramp Taxi shall have the following items in the interior of the vehicle in a place clearly visible to passengers: [end addition]

(1)   Rate Card. [begin deletion] Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle, in a place easily visible to passengers, a clear display enclosing a card upon which shall be printed in plain, legible letters the schedule of rates that may be charged for carriage in such vehicle and such other provisions of this Article as the SFMTA may require. The display and its installed location in the vehicle must be approved by the SFMTA. [end deletion] [start addition] A rate card supplied by the SFMTA. [end addition]

(2)   311 Card. [begin deletion] Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have a clear display to hold a [end deletion] [start addition] A [end addition] 311 card [begin deletion] permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle in a place readily visible to any passenger. The 311 card must clearly display [end deletion] [start addition] that clearly displays [end addition] the Vehicle Number and the name of the Color Scheme in plain, legible letters.

(3)   Braille Display. [begin deletion] All taxicab vehicles [end deletion] shall have a large sign in Braille mounted on the interior of the right rear door [start addition] immediately above the door handle [end addition] indicating the Vehicle Number and the name of the Color Scheme.

(4)   Driver Identification. [begin deletion] Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be equipped with a [end deletion] [start addition] A [end addition] holder for a Color Scheme Identification Card [begin deletion] , placed in such a position that any passenger in the vehicle has a clear view of the front of the Driver's photo identification [end deletion] .

 

(e)   Communication Equipment. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be equipped with direct voice access and two-way communication with a Dispatch Service affiliated with the Taxi or Ramp Taxi.

 

(f)   Taximeters.

(1)   Seal Required. The Taximeter installed in any Taxi and Ramp Taxi must have a current and valid seal from the Department of Public Health Weights and Measures. Any Taximeter removed from a Taxi or Ramp Taxi with or without its seals intact and placed in the same or another Taxi or Ramp Taxi must be certified and resealed by the Weights and Measures. Any Taxi or Ramp Taxi found to have Taximeter seals that are broken, removed, destroyed, marred or otherwise tampered with will be taken out of service until correctly repaired.

(2)   [begin deletion] Temporary Operation. Pending a Department of Public Health Weights and Measures inspection, a Taximeter that is new or a Taximeter that has a seal that has been broken, adjusted, repaired or serviced, may be placed in service for 24 hours when properly sealed, installed, replaced or repaired by a licensed technician approved by the Department of Public Health Weights and Measures. If the technician fails to comply with any state laws or regulations governing the Taximeter, then the vehicle shall be removed from service until corrected. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (3) [end deletion]    Installation. All Taximeter makes and models must meet the approval of the SFMTA prior to their installation [begin deletion] in any Motor Vehicle for Hire [end deletion] , and must meet all requirements of the Paratransit Program. The Taximeter shall be mounted [begin deletion] no lower than either the lowest portion of the front window frame or the top of the dashboard [end deletion] in an area that is clearly visible at all times by any passenger in the vehicle. [begin deletion] The Taximeter shall not be mounted in such a manner as to interfere with the intended function of O.E.M. equipment, including airbags. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (4)   Illuminating Devices. Each Taximeter shall be equipped with an illuminating device that enables a passenger to conveniently observe the meter and the amount of fare registered at all times for that trip at all hours of the day and night. [end deletion]

 

(g)   Safety Partition. Safety partitions of a design that is approved by the SFMTA may be installed in Taxi and/or Ramp Taxi vehicles at the option of the Color Scheme.

 

(h)   Emergency Equipment. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall have at all times a functional spare tire, a working jack and wrench to replace a flat tire, and [start addition] two [end addition] [begin deletion] 2 [end deletion] flares or [begin deletion] 2 [end deletion] [start addition] two [end addition] freestanding reflectors.

 

(i)   Signage and Displays. Only materials, signs and devices [start addition] that are safety related, [end addition] required by law or approved by the SFMTA may be placed on the windows, or displayed or hung inside or outside of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi.

 

(j)   Lights.

(1)   Standard Lights. All [start addition] Taxi and Ramp Taxi vehicles shall be equipped with exterior lights as required by the Vehicle Code, an inside dome light [begin deletion] , [end deletion] and dashboard lights.  All [end addition] O.E.M. lights must be maintained in working condition as designed, [begin deletion] including headlights (high/low beam), parking lights, turn signals, tail and brake lights, inside dome light, dashboard lights, license plate light, emergency warning lights and side lights; [end deletion] and [begin deletion] , [end deletion] all lenses of such lights are to be reasonably intact. No O.E.M. light may be obstructed or disconnected during operation. [begin deletion] The "third" brake light shall be unobstructed and in good working condition at all times. [end deletion] Any additional modifications must have prior approval by the SFMTA.

(2)   Top Lights.

(A)   All Taxis and Ramp Taxis must be equipped with a working top light containing a light or lights permanently attached to the roof of the vehicle, which may either have the name of the Color Scheme printed on it, or the words "Taxicab" [begin deletion] , [end deletion] [start addition] or [end addition] "taxi" [begin deletion] , "cab" or "meter rates". [end deletion]

(B)   Each Driver shall ensure that such top light is illuminated at all times except when the vehicle is engaged in the transportation of a passenger. The top light shall turn on while the Taximeter is in the non-recording position and shall turn off while the Taximeter is in the recording position.

 

(k)   Standard Equipment. All Taxis and Ramp [begin deletion] Taxis [end deletion] [start addition] Taxi vehicles shall have all equipment required by the Vehicle Code [end addition] [begin deletion] shall have the following standard equipment [end deletion] maintained in good working order such that the equipment functions effectively for the purpose for which it was intended [start addition] . All Taxi and Ramp Taxi vehicles shall also be equipped with [end addition] :

(1)   Automatic door locks that can be controlled by the Driver [start addition] and the passenger [end addition] .

(2)   Available and easily visible seat belts in all seating positions where passengers may ride.

[begin deletion] (3)   Rear view mirror and side view mirrors on both sides of the vehicle. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (4) [end deletion] [start addition] (3) [end addition]    Speedometer and odometer.

[begin deletion] (5)   Horn. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (6) [end deletion] [start addition] (4) [end addition]    Heater and air conditioner.

[begin deletion] (7) [end deletion] [start addition] (5) [end addition]    Door hinges, locks and latches.

[begin deletion] (8) [end deletion] [start addition] (6) [end addition]    Doors that operate easily and open and close securely from either the outside or inside of the vehicle.

[begin deletion] (9) [end deletion] [start addition] (7) [end addition]    Bumpers and body moldings in good condition and [begin deletion] properly [end deletion] [start addition] securely [end addition] attached as the manufacturer intended.

[begin deletion] (10) [end deletion] [start addition] (8) [end addition]    Shock absorbers and springs.

[begin deletion] (11)   Windshield wipers with blades in good condition. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (12) [end deletion] [start addition] (9) [end addition]    Suspension.

[begin deletion] (13) [end deletion] [start addition] (10) [end addition]    Steering.

[begin deletion] (14)   Brakes, including emergency brake. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (15) [end deletion] [start addition] (11) [end addition]    A holder for the Medallion placed in such a position that the Medallion is clearly visible from the front exterior of the vehicle and that is either attached to the dashboard or to the left side of the right front support beam, on the interior of the vehicle.

[begin deletion] (16)   Exhaust system compliant with California law. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (17) [end deletion] [start addition] (12) [end addition]    In-Taxi Equipment.

[start addition] (13)     Wheels with all lug nuts in pace and secured, of matching design (i.e. all whitewalls or all black walls), [begin deletion] and [end deletion] with matching hubcaps attached, either of original manufacturer design or of a design authorized by the SFMTA, unless wheels are of a custom design that does not use hubcaps. [end addition]

[start addition] (14)      Tires in safe operating condition and of matching design (i.e. all whitewalls or all black walls), without tire repair plugs or cuts in the sidewall, separated treads, bumps, bubbles, any thing protruding from the tire; and with a minimum remaining tread of at least 1/32 of an inch. [end addition]

 

[begin deletion] (l)   Tires and Wheels. All tires and wheels of Taxis and Ramp Taxis must comply with the following requirements: [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (1)    Meet all requirements of the California Vehicle Code. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (2)   Be of matching design (i.e. all whitewalls or all black walls), and with matching hubcaps attached, either of original manufacturer design or of a design authorized by the SFMTA, unless wheels are of a custom design that does not use hubcaps. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (3) [end deletion] Only O.E.M. size tires of the same size used at the time of the Taximeter inspection may be used on any vehicle, including spare vehicles.

[begin deletion] (4) [end deletion]    If a Taxi or Ramp Taxi is disabled because of a flat tire and the spare tire is not the O.E.M. size for normal operation, the vehicle shall remain out of service until a tire of the correct size is installed.

 

[begin deletion] (m) [end deletion] [start addition] (l) [end addition] Windows. All windows and the windshields of Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be kept clean and clear, both the outside and inside. No additional tinting or reflective material may be placed on any vehicle window except factory installed tinting. Only safety glass with the lowest factory installed tint may be used. [begin deletion] Nothing shall be placed in or on any portion of the vehicle in such a manner as to block the Driver's vision. [end deletion]

 

[begin deletion] (n) [end deletion] [start addition] (m) Security [end addition] Cameras.

[begin deletion] (1) [end deletion]    All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be equipped with an approved operational security camera meeting [start addition] the requirements of all applicable laws and meeting the following specifications: [end addition] [begin deletion] SFMTA specifications and signage notifying passengers of the presence of the camera that complies with SFMTA requirements [end deletion] .

[begin deletion] (2)   The SFMTA shall develop a list of approved camera model/systems and specifications on an annual basis. [end deletion]

[start addition] (1) No audio recording;  [end addition]

[start addition] (2) Dual video surveillance capability to record both the interior and exterior of vehicle; [end addition]

[start addition] (3) GPS and accelerometer sensors; [end addition]

[start addition] (4) A minimum of 16 GB of continuous-loop video data storage on a standard secure digital card or hard drive; and [end addition]

[start addition] (5) A minimum of two data storage systems, one of which must be located outside of the passenger compartment of the vehicle and secured against theft or tampering. [end addition]

 

[begin deletion] (o) [end deletion] [start addition] (n) Condition of Vehicle. [end addition]

[start addition] (1)   Vehicle Integrity. The vehicle shall be structurally sound and operate with minimum vibration and noise. [end addition]

[start addition] (2)   Vehicle Body. Vehicle bodies must be free of noticeable dents, rust and holes. A Taxi or Ramp Taxi shall not be placed in service if: [end addition]

[start addition] (A)   There are visible dents which exceed three square feet in any single area of the exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression ¾ of an inch deep or greater, or [end addition]

[start addition] (B)   There are visible dents which exceed four square feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or [end addition]

[start addition] (C)   There are visible dents which exceed six lineal feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or [end addition]

[start addition] (D)   There is any area of the exterior surface of the vehicle that contains a hole larger than six square inches or there is a visible dent which exceeds 144 square inches, provided that the deepest point of depression is more than two inches. [end addition]

(3)      [begin deletion] Sanitary Condition. [end deletion] [start addition] Cleaning and Disinfection of Vehicle. [end addition]

[begin deletion] (A)   Regular Cleaning of Vehicle. No [end deletion] [start addition] Every [end addition] Taxi or Ramp Taxi [begin deletion] may be driven unless the [end deletion] [start addition] must be regularly cleaned so that the [end addition] interior is clean, orderly and kept free of offensive odors [start addition] and stains.   A Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle [begin deletion]   [end deletion] [end addition] [begin deletion]   [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (B)   Disinfection of Vehicle. A Taxi or Ramp Taxi [end deletion] must be disinfected whenever required [start addition] by SFMTA. [end addition] [begin deletion] in writing by the Department of Public Health. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (C) [end deletion] [start addition] (4)   Seats. [end addition] Seats [start addition] shall be upholstered with vinyl or leather in good repair and matching [end addition] [begin deletion] upholstery and rugs shall match [end deletion] the vehicle's interior colors [begin deletion] and must be kept in good repair [end deletion] . [begin deletion] They must [end deletion] [start addition] Seat covers may [end addition] not be [begin deletion] torn, [end deletion] [start addition] stained [end addition] [begin deletion] separated [end deletion] or [start addition] torn [end addition] [begin deletion] ripped [end deletion] . [begin deletion] Seat springs may not be broken nor may they protrude through the upholstery. [end deletion] Seats shall be firm and comfortable [begin deletion] and [end deletion] [start addition] with [end addition] the tension of the seat springs [begin deletion] shall be [end deletion] evenly distributed. [begin deletion] Seat covers may not be used to replace upholstery unless the colors match the vehicle's interior colors and they are sufficiently padded. [end deletion]

[start addition] (5)       Floormats.  Rubber floormats are required.   [end addition]

 

[begin deletion] (p) [end deletion] [start addition] (o) [end addition] Vehicle Title. The principal vehicle authorized for the operation of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi Medallion may be registered only in the name of the Medallion Holder, Color Scheme, and/or a Driver holding a valid lease for the vehicle that meets the requirements of this Article. [begin deletion] If the vehicle is registered to the Driver, the registration must also include the name of the Medallion Holder or Color Scheme. [end deletion]

 

[begin deletion] (q) [end deletion] [start addition] (p) [end addition] Vehicle Mileage. Starting mileage may not be more than 70,000 miles when a vehicle is placed into service. No vehicle may be operated as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi after the vehicle has reached [begin deletion] 350,000 [end deletion] [start addition] 325,000 [end addition] miles. 

 

[begin deletion] (r) [end deletion] [start addition] (q) [end addition] Vehicle Age. [begin deletion] No vehicle may serve as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle if it is older than eight model years. Beginning January 1, 2010, no vehicle which is older than seven model years may serve as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi; provided, however, that vehicles introduced into the fleet between January 1, 2007 and July 1 2008 shall be allowed to operate through December 31, 2010. Beginning January 1, 2011, no vehicle which is older than six model years may serve as a taxicab. Beginning January 1, 2012, no vehicle which is older than five model years may be used as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle. [end deletion] [start addition]   No vehicle older than six model years may be placed into service as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle, and no vehicle older than eight model years may remain in service as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle. [end addition]

 

[begin deletion] (s) [end deletion] [start addition] (r) [end addition] Inspections.

(1)   Inspection Required. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be inspected by the SFMTA or its designee every six months for spare vehicles [start addition] and vehicles with 200,000 miles or more on the odometer [end addition] and every 12 months for regular vehicles at a date and time designated by the SFMTA, and at any other time deemed necessary. At the time of a scheduled inspection of the vehicle, the Color Scheme or Taxi or Ramp Taxi Medallion Holder must provide the following:

(A)   Valid and current State of California vehicle registration card [begin deletion] in the name of the Permit Holder [end deletion] .

(B)   Valid and current Brake Certificate issued by an official inspection station certified by the State of California within 60 days prior to inspection.

(C)   Proof of insurance meeting the requirements of all applicable laws and regulations.

(D)   A Vehicle Introduction Form signed and approved by the SFMTA.

(2)   New Vehicle. If a new vehicle is purchased for use as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi, the vehicle owner may furnish a written certificate of compliance issued by the automobile dealership in lieu of the documents required in subparagraphs 1113(s)(1)(A) through 1113(s)(1)(D) above, provided that the certificate is dated within 60 days of the annual inspection. The automobile dealership must be certified by the State of California as an official inspection station.

(3)   Salvage Vehicle. No vehicle which has been designated as "Salvage" by the California Department of Motor Vehicles may be placed into service as a taxicab unless the vehicle has been inspected and approved by the SFMTA. The SFMTA may require documents to establish the chain of title for Salvage Vehicles.

(4)   Inspection Certification. Upon satisfactory completion of all inspection requirements the SFMTA shall affix [begin deletion] an SFIA [end deletion] [start addition] a [end addition] decal and transponder to the Taxi or Ramp Taxi which authorizes the Taxi or Ramp Taxi to be operated for the time period specified upon the decal. [begin deletion] All Taxi and Ramp Taxis shall have a valid and current SFIA decal. The decal shall be conspicuously displayed on the Taxi or Ramp Taxi at all times. [end deletion]

(5)   Failing Inspection. If, on inspection [begin deletion] , the Commission or its designee [end deletion] [start addition] the SFMTA [end addition] determines that a vehicle does not meet [begin deletion] the [end deletion] [start addition] applicable [end addition] requirements [begin deletion] described in these Rules and Regulations or in the Municipal Police Code [end deletion] , the vehicle may fail inspection and may be ordered out of service until the condition(s) are corrected. A failed vehicle must be re-inspected and approved [begin deletion] by the Commission or its designee [end deletion] before being returned to service and must pass another inspection in six months from the date of return to service. [begin deletion] If a vehicle does not return to service within thirty (30) days it shall be permanently out of service, except by permission of the Commission or its designee and proof of repair. [end deletion] The decision to pass or fail a vehicle shall be at the sole discretion of the [begin deletion] Commission or its designee [end deletion] [start addition] SFMTA [end addition] .

(6)   Removal of Vehicle from Service.

(A)   A Color Scheme shall make any vehicle available for inspection upon SFMTA request. If a Color Scheme fails to make a vehicle available for inspection or if the SFMTA determines that a vehicle is not in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, the SFMTA may order the vehicle to be removed from service until it passes inspection.

(B)   If the SFMTA determines that additional repairs or further inspection of the mechanical condition or safety equipment of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi [begin deletion] by a licensed mechanic or technician [end deletion] is necessary, the Color Scheme [start addition] or Medallion Holder [end addition] shall make the necessary repairs or arrangements in order to determine if repairs are necessary, and must provide a statement of findings to the SFMTA from the repair person.

(7)   Fraud in Connection with Inspection Prohibited. Misconduct in connection with required inspection is strictly prohibited and is grounds for revocation of a permit. Misconduct may include, but is not limited to, substitution of registered owners on a temporary basis for inspection purposes, [start addition] substitution of any vehicle part or equipment within 30 days before or after an inspection for the purpose of passing inspection [end addition] or knowingly making false statements to SFMTA or SFPD or their designees in connection with an inspection. This Section shall be strictly enforced to ensure the integrity of the San Francisco [begin deletion] Taxi [end deletion] [start addition] taxi [end addition] fleet and the safety of the public.

 

[begin deletion] (t)   Condition of Vehicle. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (1)   Vehicle Integrity. The vehicle shall be structurally sound and operate with minimum vibration and noise. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (2)   Vehicle Appearance. Vehicle bodies must be free of noticeable dents, rust and holes. A Taxi or Ramp Taxi shall not be placed in service if: [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (A)   There are visible dents which exceed three square feet in any single area of the exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression ¾ of an inch deep or greater, or [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (B)   There are visible dents which exceed four square feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (C)   There are visible dents which exceed six lineal feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (D)   There is any area of the exterior surface of the vehicle that contains a hole larger than six square inches or there is a visible dent which exceeds 144 square inches, provided that the deepest point of depression is more than two inches. [end deletion]

[begin deletion]   [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (u) [end deletion] [start addition] (s) [end addition] Replacement Vehicles. Whenever an existing Taxi or Ramp Taxi is replaced with another vehicle, the replacement vehicle must be inspected and approved prior to use.

 

[begin deletion] (v) [end deletion] [start addition] (t) [end addition] Ramp Taxis. Every vehicle used as a Ramp Taxi shall have a ramp at least 30 inches wide. Any new model of Ramp Taxi vehicle proposed for use as a Ramp Taxi shall be subject to the prior approval of the SFMTA and the Paratransit Coordinating Council.

 

[begin deletion] (w) [end deletion] [start addition] (u) [end addition] Retired Vehicles. No Permit Holder may offer any Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle for sale to the public until all remnants of the Color Scheme, including the top light and all exterior lettering, numbering, signage, and any other item required to be displayed on a Taxi or Ramp Taxi are [start addition] completely [end addition] removed.

 

[begin deletion] (x) Tobacco Advertising Ban. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (1)   Color Schemes and Medallion Holders are prohibited from placing or maintaining, or causing or allowing to be placed or maintained, any advertising or promotion of cigarettes or tobacco products on any Taxi or Ramp Taxi. [end deletion]

[begin deletion] (2)   For the purposes of this subsection, "tobacco product" shall mean any substance containing tobacco leaf, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, pipes, tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco and dipping tobacco. For the purposes of this Section, "promote" or "promotion" shall include a display of any logo, brand name, character, graphics, colors, scenes, or designs that are trademarks of a particular brand of tobacco product. [end deletion]

 

 

 


SEC. 1113. - TAXI AND RAMP TAXI EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS.

 (c)

Exterior Display of Identifying Information.

(1)

Vehicle Number.

(A)

All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall have the Vehicle Number painted on or applied with adhesive on the vehicle in numerals of a color which contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle. Such number shall be at least four inches high and positioned directly under the windows on or within six inches of the forward most portion of both front doors and on the center, lower left or lower right corner of the rear facing portion of the trunk lid of the vehicle.

(B)

The Vehicle Number shall be painted on the roof, hood or trunk of the vehicle in a color that contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle. The numbers shall be a minimum of 18 inches in length and must fill the entire width of the roof, hood or trunk. If the numbers are displayed on the roof, they shall be mounted and centered directly behind the top light.

(2)

San Francisco Taxicab. The words "San Francisco Taxicab" with letters at least two inches in height, in a color which contrasts with the color of the rest of the vehicle shall be painted or attached by the use of adhesive letters on both sides of the vehicle's rear quarter panels and to the trunk directly above the rear bumper.

(3)

Inspection Certificate. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall at all times conspicuously display a current and valid SFIA decal indicating satisfactory completion of vehicle inspection as required by Section 1113(s).

(4)

Trade Name. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have the name of the Color Scheme with which the permit is affiliated painted in letters at least two inches in height on the exterior of the side doors of each side of the vehicle.

(5)

Trade Dress. The exterior of every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be well painted with the color(s) of the Color Scheme with which it is affiliated.

 

[start addition] (6) Vehicle Wrap Advertising [end addition] . 

(d)

Interior Display of Information.

(1)

Rate Card. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle, in a place easily visible to passengers, a clear display enclosing a card upon which shall be printed in plain, legible letters the schedule of rates that may be charged for carriage in such vehicle and such other provisions of this Article as the SFMTA may require. The display and its installed location in the vehicle must be approved by the SFMTA.

(2)

311 Card. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall have a clear display to hold a 311 card permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle in a place readily visible to any passenger. The 311 card must clearly display the Vehicle Number and the name of the Color Scheme in plain, legible letters.

(3)

Braille Display. All taxicab vehicles shall have a large sign in Braille mounted on the interior of the right rear door indicating the Vehicle Number and the name of the Color Scheme.

(4)

Driver Identification. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be equipped with a holder for a Color Scheme Identification Card, placed in such a position that any passenger in the vehicle has a clear view of the front of the Driver's photo identification.

(e)

Communication Equipment. Every Taxi and Ramp Taxi shall be equipped with direct voice access and two-way communication with a Dispatch Service affiliated with the Taxi or Ramp Taxi.

(f)

Taximeters.

(1)

Seal Required. The Taximeter installed in any Taxi and Ramp Taxi must have a current and valid seal from the Department of Public Health Weights and Measures. Any Taximeter removed from a Taxi or Ramp Taxi with or without its seals intact and placed in the same or another Taxi or Ramp Taxi must be certified and resealed by the Weights and Measures. Any Taxi or Ramp Taxi found to have Taximeter seals that are broken, removed, destroyed, marred or otherwise tampered with will be taken out of service until correctly repaired.

(2)

Temporary Operation. Pending a Department of Public Health Weights and Measures inspection, a Taximeter that is new or a Taximeter that has a seal that has been broken, adjusted, repaired or serviced, may be placed in service for 24 hours when properly sealed, installed, replaced or repaired by a licensed technician approved by the Department of Public Health Weights and Measures. If the technician fails to comply with any state laws or regulations governing the Taximeter, then the vehicle shall be removed from service until corrected.

(3)

Installation. All Taximeter makes and models must meet the approval of the SFMTA prior to their installation in any Motor Vehicle for Hire, and must meet all requirements of the Paratransit Program. The Taximeter shall be mounted no lower than either the lowest portion of the front window frame or the top of the dashboard in an area that is clearly visible at all times by any passenger in the vehicle. The Taximeter shall not be mounted in such a manner as to interfere with the intended function of O.E.M. equipment, including airbags.

(4)

Illuminating Devices. Each Taximeter shall be equipped with an illuminating device that enables a passenger to conveniently observe the meter and the amount of fare registered at all times for that trip at all hours of the day and night.

(g)

Safety Partition. Safety partitions of a design that is approved by the SFMTA may be installed in Taxi and/or Ramp Taxi vehicles at the option of the Color Scheme.

(h)

Emergency Equipment. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall have at all times a functional spare tire, a working jack and wrench to replace a flat tire, and 2 flares or 2 freestanding reflectors.

(i)

Signage and Displays. Only materials, signs and devices required by law or approved by the SFMTA may be placed on the windows, or displayed or hung inside or outside of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi.

(j)

Lights.

(1)

Standard Lights. All O.E.M. lights must be maintained in working condition as designed, including headlights (high/low beam), parking lights, turn signals, tail and brake lights, inside dome light, dashboard lights, license plate light, emergency warning lights and side lights; and, all lenses of such lights are to be reasonably intact. No O.E.M. light may be obstructed or disconnected during operation. The "third" brake light shall be unobstructed and in good working condition at all times. Any additional modifications must have prior approval by the SFMTA.

(2)

Top Lights.

(A)

All Taxis and Ramp Taxis must be equipped with a working top light containing a light or lights permanently attached to the roof of the vehicle, which may either have the name of the Color Scheme printed on it, or the words "Taxicab", "taxi", "cab" or "meter rates".

(B)

Each Driver shall ensure that such top light is illuminated at all times except when the vehicle is engaged in the transportation of a passenger. The top light shall turn on while the Taximeter is in the non-recording position and shall turn off while the Taximeter is in the recording position.

(k)

Standard Equipment. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall have the following standard equipment maintained in good working order such that the equipment functions effectively for the purpose for which it was intended:

(1)

Automatic door locks that can be controlled by the Driver.

(2)

Available and easily visible seat belts in all seating positions where passengers may ride.

(3)

Rear view mirror and side view mirrors on both sides of the vehicle.

(4)

Speedometer and odometer.

(5)

Horn.

(6)

Heater and air conditioner.

(7)

Door hinges, locks and latches.

(8)

Doors that operate easily and open and close securely from either the outside or inside of the vehicle.

(9)

Bumpers and body moldings in good condition and properly attached as the manufacturer intended.

(10)

Shock absorbers and springs.

(11)

Windshield wipers with blades in good condition.

(12)

Suspension.

(13)

Steering.

(14)

Brakes, including emergency brake.

(15)

A holder for the Medallion placed in such a position that the Medallion is clearly visible from the front exterior of the vehicle and that is either attached to the dashboard or to the left side of the right front support beam, on the interior of the vehicle.

(16)

Exhaust system compliant with California law.

(17)

In-Taxi Equipment.

(l)

Tires and Wheels. All tires and wheels of Taxis and Ramp Taxis must comply with the following requirements:

(1)

Meet all requirements of the California Vehicle Code.

(2)

Be of matching design (i.e. all whitewalls or all black walls), and with matching hubcaps attached, either of original manufacturer design or of a design authorized by the SFMTA, unless wheels are of a custom design that does not use hubcaps.

(3)

Only O.E.M. size tires of the same size used at the time of the Taximeter inspection may be used on any vehicle, including spare vehicles.

(4)

If a Taxi or Ramp Taxi is disabled because of a flat tire and the spare tire is not the O.E.M. size for normal operation, the vehicle shall remain out of service until a tire of the correct size is installed.

(m)

Windows. All windows and the windshields of Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be kept clean and clear, both the outside and inside. No additional tinting or reflective material may be placed on any vehicle window except factory installed tinting. Only safety glass with the lowest factory installed tint may be used. Nothing shall be placed in or on any portion of the vehicle in such a manner as to block the Driver's vision.

(n)

Cameras.

(1)

All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be equipped with an approved operational security camera meeting SFMTA specifications and signage notifying passengers of the presence of the camera that complies with SFMTA requirements.

(2)

The SFMTA shall develop a list of approved camera model/systems and specifications on an annual basis.

(o)

Sanitary Condition.

(1)

Regular Cleaning of Vehicle. No Taxi or Ramp Taxi may be driven unless the interior is clean, orderly and kept free of offensive odors.

(2)

Disinfection of Vehicle. A Taxi or Ramp Taxi must be disinfected whenever required in writing by the Department of Public Health.

(3)

Interior of Vehicle. Seats, upholstery and rugs shall match the vehicle's interior colors and must be kept in good repair. They must not be torn, separated or ripped. Seat springs may not be broken nor may they protrude through the upholstery. Seats shall be firm and comfortable and the tension of the seat springs shall be evenly distributed. Seat covers may not be used to replace upholstery unless the colors match the vehicle's interior colors and they are sufficiently padded.

(p)

Vehicle Title. The principal vehicle authorized for the operation of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi Medallion may be registered only in the name of the Medallion Holder, Color Scheme, and/or a Driver holding a valid lease for the vehicle that meets the requirements of this Article. If the vehicle is registered to the Driver, the registration must also include the name of the Medallion Holder or Color Scheme.

(q)

Vehicle Mileage. Starting mileage may not be more than 70,000 miles when a vehicle is placed into service. No vehicle may be operated as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi after the vehicle has reached 350,000 miles.

(r)

Vehicle Age. No vehicle may serve as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle if it is older than eight model years. Beginning January 1, 2010, no vehicle which is older than seven model years may serve as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi; provided, however, that vehicles introduced into the fleet between January 1, 2007 and July 1 2008 shall be allowed to operate through December 31, 2010. Beginning January 1, 2011, no vehicle which is older than six model years may serve as a taxicab. Beginning January 1, 2012, no vehicle which is older than five model years may be used as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle.

(s)

Inspections.

(1)

Inspection Required. All Taxis and Ramp Taxis shall be inspected by the SFMTA or its designee every six months for spare vehicles and every 12 months for regular vehicles at a date and time designated by the SFMTA, and at any other time deemed necessary. At the time of a scheduled inspection of the vehicle, the Color Scheme or Taxi or Ramp Taxi Medallion Holder must provide the following:

(A)

Valid and current State of California vehicle registration card in the name of the Permit Holder.

(B)

Valid and current Brake Certificate issued by an official inspection station certified by the State of California within 60 days prior to inspection.

(C)

Proof of insurance meeting the requirements of all applicable laws and regulations.

(D)

A Vehicle Introduction Form signed and approved by the SFMTA.

(2)

New Vehicle. If a new vehicle is purchased for use as a Taxi or Ramp Taxi, the vehicle owner may furnish a written certificate of compliance issued by the automobile dealership in lieu of the documents required in subparagraphs 1113(s)(1)(A) through 1113(s)(1)(D) above, provided that the certificate is dated within 60 days of the annual inspection. The automobile dealership must be certified by the State of California as an official inspection station.

(3)

Salvage Vehicle. No vehicle which has been designated as "Salvage" by the California Department of Motor Vehicles may be placed into service as a taxicab unless the vehicle has been inspected and approved by the SFMTA. The SFMTA may require documents to establish the chain of title for Salvage Vehicles.

(4)

Inspection Certification. Upon satisfactory completion of all inspection requirements the SFMTA shall affix an SFIA decal and transponder to the Taxi or Ramp Taxi which authorizes the Taxi or Ramp Taxi to be operated for the time period specified upon the decal. All Taxi and Ramp Taxis shall have a valid and current SFIA decal. The decal shall be conspicuously displayed on the Taxi or Ramp Taxi at all times.

(5)

Failing Inspection. If, on inspection, the Commission or its designee determines that a vehicle does not meet the requirements described in these Rules and Regulations or in the Municipal Police Code, the vehicle may fail inspection and may be ordered out of service until the condition(s) are corrected. A failed vehicle must be re-inspected and approved by the Commission or its designee before being returned to service and must pass another inspection in six months from the date of return to service. If a vehicle does not return to service within thirty (30) days it shall be permanently out of service, except by permission of the Commission or its designee and proof of repair. The decision to pass or fail a vehicle shall be at the sole discretion of the Commission or its designee.

(6)

Removal of Vehicle from Service.

(A)

A Color Scheme shall make any vehicle available for inspection upon SFMTA request. If a Color Scheme fails to make a vehicle available for inspection or if the SFMTA determines that a vehicle is not in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, the SFMTA may order the vehicle to be removed from service until it passes inspection.

(B)

If the SFMTA determines that additional repairs or further inspection of the mechanical condition or safety equipment of a Taxi or Ramp Taxi by a licensed mechanic or technician is necessary, the Color Scheme shall make the necessary repairs or arrangements in order to determine if repairs are necessary, and must provide a statement of findings to the SFMTA from the repair person.

(7)

Fraud in Connection with Inspection Prohibited. Misconduct in connection with required inspection is strictly prohibited and is grounds for revocation of a permit. Misconduct may include, but is not limited to, substitution of registered owners on a temporary basis for inspection purposes, or knowingly making false statements to SFMTA or SFPD or their designees in connection with an inspection. This Section shall be strictly enforced to ensure the integrity of the San Francisco Taxi fleet and the safety of the public.

(t)

Condition of Vehicle.

(1)

Vehicle Integrity. The vehicle shall be structurally sound and operate with minimum vibration and noise.

(2)

Vehicle Appearance. Vehicle bodies must be free of noticeable dents, rust and holes. A Taxi or Ramp Taxi shall not be placed in service if:

(A)

There are visible dents which exceed three square feet in any single area of the exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression ¾ of an inch deep or greater, or

(B)

There are visible dents which exceed four square feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or

(C)

There are visible dents which exceed six lineal feet of the total exterior surface of the vehicle, provided that the deepest point of depression is ¾ inch deep or greater, or

(D)

There is any area of the exterior surface of the vehicle that contains a hole larger than six square inches or there is a visible dent which exceeds 144 square inches, provided that the deepest point of depression is more than two inches.

(u)

Replacement Vehicles. Whenever an existing Taxi or Ramp Taxi is replaced with another vehicle, the replacement vehicle must be inspected and approved prior to use.

(v)

Ramp Taxis. Every vehicle used as a Ramp Taxi shall have a ramp at least 30 inches wide. Any new model of Ramp Taxi vehicle proposed for use as a Ramp Taxi shall be subject to the prior approval of the SFMTA and the Paratransit Coordinating Council.

(w)

Retired Vehicles. No Permit Holder may offer any Taxi or Ramp Taxi vehicle for sale to the public until all remnants of the Color Scheme, including the top light and all exterior lettering, numbering, signage, and any other item required to be displayed on a Taxi or Ramp Taxi are removed.

(x)

Tobacco Advertising Ban.

(1)

Color Schemes and Medallion Holders are prohibited from placing or maintaining, or causing or allowing to be placed or maintained, any advertising or promotion of cigarettes or tobacco products on any Taxi or Ramp Taxi.

(2)

For the purposes of this subsection, "tobacco product" shall mean any substance containing tobacco leaf, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, pipes, tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco and dipping tobacco. For the purposes of this Section, "promote" or "promotion" shall include a display of any logo, brand name, character, graphics, colors, scenes, or designs that are trademarks of a particular brand of tobacco product.

 

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