Large Multi-Passenger Pedalled Vehicles on City Streets

Where used in other jurisdictions, the vehicles support group tourist and/or recreational activities. Pedicabs, as defined in Chapter 545, Licensing, are pedal-powered vehicles which permit up to two adult passengers, or more if approved by the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards. Pedicab drivers must hold a valid Ontario driver's licence. Their operation is prohibited during rush hour and they are also prohibited at all times on certain streets. There are two operators proposing to operate large, multi-passenger pedalled vehicles on city streets this Spring and one has applied for a business licence as a pedicab. In seeking direction on whether the Executive Director should license these vehicles as pedicabs to operate with up to 16 passengers, subject to compliance with all other licensing requirements, staff also recommend that consideration be given to temporary limits on the number of pedicab licences issued for such large vehicles, and that staff be directed to consult with stakeholders, including emergency services and the Toronto Transit Commission, and report back with final recommendations. Economic Development and Culture and Transportation Services were also notified of the development of this report.

2. Council direct the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards in consultation with Transportation Services, Economic Development and Culture and other divisions, as appropriate, to consult with relevant stakeholders, including emergency services and the Toronto Transit Commission, and the public on the impacts of large, multi-passenger pedalled vehicles on city streets and any proposed regulatory changes, and to include a summary of these consultation efforts in a final report in 2023. 3. Council direct that Confidential Attachment 1 remain confidential as it contains advice which is subject to solicitor-client privilege.