For Immediate Release
Date: March 11, 2013
The City of Savannah is temporarily allowing local taxi and shuttle companies to expand their fleet over the St. Patrick’s Day Festival to help meet the transportation needs of the expected influx of visitors.
Savannah currently has 38 registered taxi companies that operate 203 vehicles, and 16 shuttle companies that operate 49 shuttles. Savannah Mobility and Parking Services, which regulates the industry, will allow existing companies to temporarily permit additional vehicles if they meet certain criteria. In order to receive the temporary permit, the taxis or shuttles must:
- Be affiliated with an existing Savannah taxi or shuttle company
- Provide proof of insurance for the added vehicle
- Be a 2003 or newer model of vehicle
- Post magnetic signs on the side of the vehicle indicating the company name with a minimum of 4 inch letters
- Purchase a temporary commercial decal (cost is $80)
- Post a rate sheet issued by Mobility and Parking Services
- Display the temporary shuttle decal in the windshield
- Have a driver with a current City of Savannah taxi permit
- Provide a 7 year Motor Vehicle Report
- Be inspected and pass inspection
Unless the taxi or shuttle is licensed by the City of Savannah, it is not permitted to operate on City roads. Mobility and Parking Services enforcement officers will specifically target illegally operating taxis and shuttles throughout the weekend. Those caught will be issued a citation, and face paying a $750 fine.