Although livery drivers and taxi drivers serve a different set of customers, the rules and regulations for both industries are now merging. According to the Worcester Telegram, livery drivers and owner operators in Gardner are now following the same rules as taxi companies due to an ordinance change approved by the City Council.

The Council voted to approve these changes in March. Here are some of the important parameters to know about for your livery business:

Livery vehicles have a predetermined rate once the passenger enters. They do not operate on a fixed route or roving basis, are hired by means of a telephone request or contract arranged in advance, and need livery plates issued by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Vehicles used to provide services to funeral homes won’t be considered livery vehicles under this law.
The owner operators must be licensed in order to conduct or operate a livery business in the City of Gardner. It is expected, but not required, that the “owner” also be the “operator” of the livery service business.
An “operator” is any person licensed who manages a livery business on behalf of the owner. “Operator” does not mean “driver.”
The driver is the person licensed, employed by, or otherwise contracted with the livery business to drive a licensed livery vehicle to pick up and transport the passenger(s).
No person can set up, use, or drive any Livery vehicle for the transport of persons for hire, from place to place within the City, unless he has obtained a license to do so.
Each owner and operator of a livery service business shall not conduct or operate it without a license. The owner and/or operator shall complete the application fully, accurately, and honestly.
An owner of a livery business cannot employ a driver, nor allow a driver to operate a livery vehicle unless the driver has obtained a City of Gardner livery driver’s license.
The taxi business name, license number, and the business telephone number should be legible and clearly visible on the center of the front door. Livery vehicles are exempt from this section.
The interior and exterior of every licensed livery vehicle is to be kept clean. All vehicles shall be thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and repaired by the owner at least once a week.
The Chief of Police is authorized to order the owner, operator, and driver of any livery vehicle to be removed immediately from public use if it is unsafe or in a dangerous condition.
The licensee of a livery driver’s license must answer fully and civilly any questions asked of him or her by a police officer.
Every livery vehicle should be submitted for an annual inspection in the month of May, unless otherwise directed by the Chief of Police.
The Chief of Police can do background checks on livery drivers if necessary.
Overall, these changes can enable the local police to better ensure the safety of the livery vehicles and drivers. If you feel your livery business requires more protection to prevent accidents and injuries, rely on Wolpert Insurance for reliable livery insurance. Contact us today for more information!