Hackney Carriage Vehicles
Hackney Carriage Drivers and the Disability Discrimination Act (Carriage of Animals)
If you are a Hackney Carriage, Private Hire or Joint driver you should be aware of the Equality Act 2010 (Part 12 — Disabled persons: transport) and how it affects you. You must allow guide, hearing and other assistance dogs to escort a disabled person. A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale (up to £1000).
If you have a medical condition that prevents you from coming into contact with dogs you can apply to the Licensing Department for a certificate of exemption. You will need to provide a medical report from your GP or Consultant to confirm this. We will issue a certificate of exemption which should be displayed inside your vehicle.
Guide dog and other assistance dog owners should not be refused access to taxis, on religious grounds.
No additional charges can be applied to the carriage of assistance dogs.
View additional information on the Equality Act 2010.
View information on the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
View the Council’s list of licensed vehicles that are wheelchair accessible.