Uber readies legal action if Surrey blocks app access
Posted January 28, 2020 11:07 am.
Last Updated January 28, 2020 11:10 am.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Uber says it is getting ready to take legal action against Surrey to ensure people in the city have the right to access the company’s apps.
The ride-hailing company says it’s committed to working collaboratively with municipalities, but it will continue to be available to people in Surrey within its service area. In an emailed statement, Uber says the province has been very clear municipalities don’t have the authority to prevent ride-hailing companies from operating and that the company has all the required provincial permits and licences.
Doug McCallum maintained his stance ride-hailing is operating illegally within the city and said Uber drivers would be fined if they are found operating in Surrey.
“For those who continue to operate in Surrey, there will no longer be warning tickets and any violators caught will be ticketed and will face a fine of $500.”
Eighteen tickets were issued over the first weekend Uber was available.
RELATED: Surrey mayor promises $500 fines for Uber drivers picking up in city
In the absence of a business licence that covers ride-hailing for the municipality, Uber says it has all the necessary provincial documents. The company says it is supportive of the idea of an Inter-Municipal Business Licence and looks forward to obtaining one when it becomes available.
Meanwhile, a group of local taxi companies is taking its fight against ride-hailing to B.C. Supreme Court.
The Vancouver Taxi Association wants an injunction to get companies like Uber and Lyft to stop operating.
It’s expected to be heard next Tuesday.
