Updated administrative rules that allow companies like Uber to operate legally in Eugene will be available for public review and comment beginning March 13 through March 28. Comments on the proposed rules can be submitted to PPV@ci.eugene.or.us or mailed to:
Public Passenger Vehicle Program
Building & Permit Services Division
99 West 10th Avenue
Eugene, Oregon, 97401
Comments received during this time will be added to the public record and will help inform any further revisions to the rules that will be considered by the City Manager. Final rules are expected to be approved later this spring. The full text and a summary of the changes are available on the City’s website www.eugene-or.gov/ppv.
The proposed rules make it possible for companies like Uber to operate in Eugene by:
• Adding transportation network companies (TNC) as a type of company that can be licensed to provide vehicles for hire; and
• Making it possible for people to use a personal vehicle to provide rides by removing requirements for TNCs to have vehicles all the same color, to post rates on the outside of the vehicle, and to have a top light.
In addition, the rules simplify insurance requirements for all public passenger vehicles. The rules still require vehicle safety inspections, insurance coverage whenever a driver is working, and driver certification that includes a background check through the Eugene Police Department.
Last year, the Eugene City Council updated City code to allow vehicles for hire in Eugene to use smart phone applications to calculate and charge fares. The Council also gave direction to update administrative rules to accommodate new transportation models while maintaining community safety standards such as driver background checks and insurance requirements. The proposed updates are based on this direction as well as input from stakeholders including local taxi company representatives, representatives of transportation network companies (TNCs), and representatives from other local transportation agencies and jurisdictions. The City also collected informal feedback on a first draft of the rules in November 2015.
For more information on the proposed rules and public passenger vehicles in Eugene visit www.eugene-or.gov/ppv.