Taxi fare setting
The Council regulates fares for Hackney Carriages (taxis) in the borough.
Fares are charged for the distance covered and by the time taken. Drivers may only charge what is shown on the meter, unless:
- the journey ends outside of the borough, and
- the passenger agrees a different fare before the journey starts.
The driver may charge less than the fare shown on the tariff. The Council does not get involved in disputes involving private hire vehicle fares. The law says that these are private arrangements, between the passenger and the private hire vehicle firm involved.
Hackney carriage taxi fares
- If you wish to hire a taxi by time, you should agree the charge with the driver before you start the journey
- Otherwise, if your whole journey is within the borough of Watford, the fare for distance and time will be clocked on the taximeter at the rates shown below
- If part of your journey is outside of the borough, the driver can legally charge more than the meter fare providing you agree before you start, or he may refuse the hiring BUT
- Watford taxi-drivers will usually take you anywhere for just the metered fare, plus any extra charges shown below when they apply
Below are the maximum charges authorised by Watford Borough Council for journeys inside the borough
Tariff 1
For any hiring during Monday to Sunday other than a public holiday (6am - 11pm)
| £2 | Minimum fare for the first 321 metres or 69 seconds or part; then |
|---|---|
| 20p | For each 160.5 metres or 34.5 seconds or part until the fare exceeds £14 or 6 miles, thereafter |
| 20p | For every extra 112.5 metres or 24.2 seconds |
Tariff 2
For any hiring between 11pm on any day and 6am on the following day or public holiday
| £2 | Minimum fare for the first 210.6 metres or 45.2 seconds or part; then |
|---|---|
| 20p | For each 105.3 metres or 22.6 seconds, until the fare exceeds £20.20 or 6 miles thereafter |
| 20p | For every extra 112.5 metres or 24.2 seconds |
The driver may charge a soiling charge of £30 for a taxi that requires a cleaning service.
Any complaint about a taxi or driver should be sent to Environmental Services, Town Hall, Watford, WD17 3EX or telephone 01923 226400 with the number of the taxi or of the drivers badge.
Lost property will be taken to the Town Hall.
Guide, hearing and assistance dogs authorised by the appropriate charity must be carried.
THE DRIVER IS NOT ALLOWED TO CARRY ANY PASSENGERS EXCEPT THE HIRER AND PEOPLE INVITED BY THE HIRER.
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