For the safety of everyone in Edmonton using ride sharing and vehicle for hire operators the city has passed an order under the State of Local Emergency tough new rules to help limit risks of exposure to COVID-19.

Under the order, effective immediately, all taxis, limousines, private transportation providers, shuttle service providers; as well as all ride sharing services such as Uber, Tapp and all others operating vehicles for hire, must adhere to these new restrictions.

• No more than one passenger per vehicle; except if:
• additional passengers are members of the same household, individuals in a close personal relationship, or a required caregiver; or
• the size and capacity of the vehicle allows for 2 metres between each passenger and the driver (e.g. shuttle bus);
• No passengers are permitted in the front passenger seat(s)
• While driving and/or operating as a vehicle for hire service, cleaning and disinfecting supplies must be kept in the front passenger seat in plain view and used for cleaning of vehicles after each trip.
• Door handles (interior and exterior), window controls, door locks, passenger seating area, seat belts and buckles, must be cleaned after each fare and with disinfecting cleaning products and substances. Payment devices must be cleaned after each use.
• Drivers should take appropriate care (e.g. Personal Protective Equipment) when providing physical support to passengers.
• Any vehicle that provides service to a passenger who is demonstrating COVID-19 symptoms, including cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, or sore throat, or who otherwise indicates that they are at risk of having COVID-19, must be immediately removed from service and thoroughly sanitized.

These requirements and restrictions are now in place till further notice.

The City of Edmonton promises to work with the vehicle for hire industry to communicate these changes. For any drivers not following this directive, enforcement teams will be deployed to help ensure adherence to the new regulations.

The vehicle for hire industry has been deemed an essential service and these new requirements ensure they can continue to operate in a manner that is safe for both drivers and passengers.