What is changing?
Starting in March 2026, based on changes to the T-1000 Bylaw, the municipality is changing regulations around taxis, limousines and transportation networking companies (TNC).
These changes are to create a fair, modern, and adaptable system that better reflects today’s transportation marketplace while promoting industry sustainability and protecting consumers.
Taxi Rate Modernization
HRM is transitioning to a semi‑regulated fare model. Under this system:
- Brokers, independent brokers, and limousine operators may establish their own fare schedules, within parameters set by the Administrative Order.
- Fare schedules must be submitted to the Licensing Authority (licensing@halifax.ca) and will be approved if compliant.
- Operators may request fare adjustments at any time, enabling more timely responses to market conditions.
- Operators who do not submit a schedule will default to the existing Council‑approved rates and will not receive future rate adjustments unless they submit a new schedule.
This model increases flexibility while ensuring transparency and protection against unfair or hidden charges.
Fare Structure Requirements
Under the semi-regulated model, taxi brokers and independent brokers would be required to have a metered rate, which may include some or all the following components:
- an initial charge at the start of the trip, with or without an included initial distance
- a distance charge for distance travelled
- a wait time charge for time spent stationery or travelling below a specified speed
- charges based on zones established by the broker or independent broker
- an additional charge for additional passengers over the age of twelve (12), except where such additional passenger is a support person for a passenger with a disability
- the actual cost of any tolls incurred by the driver during the trip
Rate schedules must not include:
- different rates for standard taxis and accessible taxis
- extra fees for specific payment methods
- any additional charges for additional passengers aged twelve (12) or younger, or for a support person accompanying passenger with a disability
- fees for assisting passengers with entering or exiting the vehicle or in loading or unloading articles from the trunk
- additional charges for the transportation of wheelchairs, mobility aids, assistive devices, or
- Including any additional charge for transportation of a service animal
Taxi rates may vary by time of day or day of the week, (e.g., peak-hour pricing), but may not vary based on weather conditions, special events, or vehicle availability.
Taxi brokers and independent brokers would also establish flat-rate schedules for certain predetermined trips, such as airport runs or travel between designated areas. Flat-area trips are not subject to metered pricing.
Taxi brokers and independent brokers may request rate adjustments at any time, with changes taking effect immediately upon approval by the Licensing Authority, or at a future date requested by the broker or independent broker.
Technology Improvements – Taxi Meters
To support modernization:
- HRM will now accept any accurate metering technology, including GPS‑based systems.
- Compliance Officers will verify meter rate configurations during inspections.
Roof Light Standards
- Pre‑existing Dartmouth and County‑style roof lights are now formally recognized.
- Newly licensed taxis must continue using the Halifax‑style roof light, unless an alternative design receives approval by the Licensing Authority.
Online Applications
Amendments now allow for online license applications, reducing administrative burden and eliminating the need for the Statutory Declaration form. In‑person applications remain available for those who prefer them.
Fuel Efficient Vehicle Requirements
A smaller fuel‑efficient vehicle may be used only if it is electric, hybrid, or powered by another renewable fuel.
Next Steps
We encourage all operators and brokers to begin reviewing how these changes affect their business practices, particularly regarding fare schedule submissions and technology requirements, by going to https://www.halifax.ca/city-hall/legislation-by-laws to view the By-Law T-1000 and Administrative Order 39.