City Takes Close Look At Illegal Taxis

The City of Hoboken announced on Wednesday afternoon that more than $60,000 in summonses have been issued to illegally-operating taxi services. 

The summonses, together with spot checks for proper documentation, are part of a larger crack down to regulate the taxis in Hoboken. 

The taxi stand by the PATH station was moved in early March, to the dismay of many taxi drivers. A dispatcher during peak hours and an undercover officer have also been working by the taxi stand, to make sure the cab drivers do not do anything illegal. Cab drivers in Hoboken are allowed to take multiple fares on one trip, but have to ask the first passenger for permission. 

Hailing a cab in Hoboken is legal.

All trips within the Mile Square are $5. Director of Transportation and Parking Ian Sacs said—a while ago—that a book with set fares to other places outside the city's borders will be developed. 

"My Administration is taking taxi and limousine safety issues very seriously," said Mayor Dawn Zimmer in a statement.

"The relocation of the taxi stand at Hoboken Terminal combined with a dispatcher posted during peak periods has improved organization and dramatically reduced illegal and inappropriate haggling,"  read the City's press release.

These increased enforcement efforts contributed to the recent arrest of an illegally-operating driver by the Hoboken Police Department. The driver had a suspended license, four warrants out for his arrest, and was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. Due to this and other events, the City has been cooperating with higher level agencies to assist in expanded enforcement efforts.

All licensed Hoboken taxis have a shield and number on both front doors of the car. The City advises residents and visitors not to get in an unlicensed cab.

Not only is it a safety risk, the City announced, it also harms legally-operating Hoboken-based taxi businesses.

The Department of Transportation and Parking has been cleaning up lately. Yesterday, . 

Residents who suspect a violation or have a concern about a taxi should call the Taxi Division at 201-216-1090 or email taxi@hobokennj.org and provide the number in the shield on the door.