§ 19-96. Vehicle inspection—Generally.

(a)

Upon application for permit and periodically. In addition to annual state safety inspections, vehicles must be inspected under this chapter upon the filing of an application, or renewal application, for an operating permit. The chief may also, from time to time, cause to be made an inspection of taxicabs. If any vehicle is found to be unsafe or unfit for operation, notice shall be given to the driver and the operating permit holder and such vehicle shall not be operated until the same has been put in safe and fit condition.

(b)

Inspection items. The inspection may include and cover: the brakes, lights, horn, tires, all other safety features of the vehicle, a road test of the vehicle, and an inspection of the interior of the taxicab with respect to the general condition of the upholstery, rugs, or floor covering and general cleanliness thereof and an inspection of the exterior condition of the vehicle which must be free of torn, flaking or protruding metal which could constitute a safety hazard. Additionally, the following, in good working order, is required on every taxicab:

(1)

An electric light indicator on top of the vehicle no less than ten (10) inches in width and four (4) inches in depth; and

(2)

A standard speedometer, visible to passengers, properly installed and maintained in good working order. No taxicab shall be operated as a taxicab if such speedometer is out of repair or disconnected; and

(3)

A heater and air conditioner sufficient to adequately heat and cool the interior of the taxicab in cold or warm weather, respectively; and

(4)

A frame or other device to display the driver's permit, memorandum operating permit and rate card to passengers; and

(5)

Approved and working seat belts available to any passenger within taxicab; and

(6)

Windshields, side and rear glass clear and free of dirt, discoloration and cracks; and

(7)

A two-way radio or cellular phone providing direct communication for immediate dispatching; and

(8)

Tires with a tread of at least 3/32 of an inch; and

(9)

Removable floor mats of rubber or other nonabsorbent material; and

(10)

Neat and sanitary interior with upholstery that is free of stains and tears and of original manufacturer's design and type with no temporary seat covers; and

(11)

Such other items as may be required by this chapter.

(c)

Inspection decal. The chief may require that taxicabs that have been inspected and found to be in clean and proper condition display an inspection decal issued by the chief and displayed in a location to be determined by the chief. At such time as the chief commences issuing inspection decals, no taxicab shall be operated on the streets of the town without displaying a current valid inspection decal.

(d)

Removal from service. The discovery of any inadequacy in any of the items required to be inspected or tested by this chapter shall cause the taxicab to be removed from service until the taxicab has been repaired and complies with the requirements of this chapter. Such removal may be appealed to the chief in accordance with section 19-76 but the vehicle shall remain out of service pending the decision of the chief.

(Ord. No. 352, 4-4-00)