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6.54.070 Vehicle inspection.
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A. Each taxicab or for-hire vehicle shall pass an inspection prior to commencing services in the city of Bellingham, and annually thereafter, by an approved mechanic, as defined in this chapter. The applicant shall file an affidavit annually with the finance department that each vehicle passed a safety inspection performed by an approved mechanic. Such an inspection shall, at a minimum, include inspection of the following components:

1. Foot brakes;

2. Parking brakes;

3. Steering mechanism;

4. Windshield;

5. Rear window and other glass;

6. Windshield wipers;

7. Headlights;

8. Taillights;

9. Turn indicator lights;

10. Stop lights;

11. Front seat adjustment mechanism;

12. Doors (open, close, lock);

13. Horn;

14. Speedometer;

15. Bumpers;

16. Muffler and exhaust system;

17. Condition of tires, including tread depth;

18. Interior and exterior rear view mirrors; and

19. Safety belts for driver and passenger(s).

B. It is unlawful for an owner or driver to operate a taxicab or for-hire vehicle without a current and valid vehicle license issued by the city of Bellingham pursuant to BMC 6.54.090. Proof of vehicle license for a taxicab or for-hire vehicles must be provided at the request of a law enforcement officer. Violation shall constitute a misdemeanor as provided in BMC 6.54.190.

C. It is the responsibility of the owner to maintain all taxicabs or for-hire vehicles in compliance with the requirements of RCW Title 46; WAC Titles 204 and 308 and municipal vehicle ordinances at all times.

D. Failure to comply with state vehicle requirements of RCW Title 46, WAC Titles 204 and 308, and municipal vehicle ordinance requirements is cause for a vehicle to be suspended from use as a taxicab or for-hire vehicle in the city until compliance is met. To prove compliance, the vehicle must be reinspected by an approved mechanic who certifies that the vehicle complies with the state vehicle requirements of RCW Title 46; WAC Titles 204 and 308, and the requirements of this chapter. [Ord. 2023-12-039 § 4; Ord. 2007-12-106; Ord. 10383, 1992].