Sec. 18-63. - Applications for taxicab vehicle permits.

(a)

Applications. Applications for taxicab vehicle permits shall be submitted by taxicab business owners to the sheriff's office on approved forms and with such additional documentation, information, and procedures as mandated by the sheriff's office, including but not limited to the following:

(i)

A copy of the taxicab's current California vehicle registration, evidence of ownership or right of possession, and information regarding the identification of the taxicab including make and model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, interior and exterior colors, and mileage.

(ii)

Delineation of the proposed taxicab rates and any additional fees to be charged to passengers during the time period of the permit, which may not be excessive as determined by the board of supervisors via resolution or, in the event there is no current resolution, by the sheriff in his/her discretion.

(iii)

A vehicle inspection certification of the taxicab in a format approved by the sheriff's office, completed within sixty (60) days of the permit application. The certification shall utilize a vehicle inspection checklist approved by the sheriff's office, and shall verify that all aspects of the taxicab are in a safe operating condition. Any repairs made as a result of the inspection must also be identified on the checklist. The taxicab inspection shall be conducted by, and the certificate shall be issued by, a vehicle inspection station or automobile repair garage located in the county of Sonoma and properly licensed by the state of California.

(iv)

Written certification by the applicant that he/she is maintaining a mandatory controlled substance and alcohol testing certification program for all persons who may operate the taxicab.

(v)

Proofs of insurance and/or a surety bonds demonstrating a minimum level of coverage as set by the county's risk management department, which shall cover all drivers of the taxicab as insured parties.

(vi)

An indemnification agreement signed by the applicant in a form approved by county counsel. The indemnification agreement shall provide that the applicant agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the county and its officials, employees, and agents from all damages, liabilities, claims, actions, and other expenses (including attorneys' fees) resulting from or arising out of the operation of the taxicab.

(b)

Term and Renewal. Taxicab vehicle permits issued under this article shall be valid for a term of one (1) year from the date of issuance. Applications for renewal of such permits must be submitted to the sheriff's office at least thirty (30) days prior to the termination of the existing permit. Applications for renewal shall be submitted on forms, and with such additional documentation, information, and procedures as mandated by the sheriff's office.

(Ord. No. 6029, § I, 4-23-2013.)