Several Calgary taxi companies dropping their rate starting Monday

CALGARY – You won’t have to dig as deep into your wallet to catch a cab in Calgary starting Monday.

It’s the first time in Calgary’s history that cab companies can compete for customers by offering a lower fare.

READ MORE: Cheaper cabs in Calgary? Company lowers fares as Uber-inspired regulations take effect

Earlier this year, the city approved amendments to the Livery Transport bylaw that allows taxis and limousine services to set their own rates.

Associated Cab and Delta Cab will lower their rate by 12 per cent, while Checker Cab and Mayfair Taxi are dropping their rate by 15 per cent.

Sedan-Limousine Airport’s flat rate will also be lowered by 12 per cent.

The bylaw changes were first introduced in Calgary to pave the way for ride-sharing companies to operate in our city.

But one big company – Uber, is refusing to operate in Calgary . Uber claims fees for its drivers set by city hall are too high and they want them changed.

The amended bylaw would force Uber drivers to undergo police background checks, be properly insured (a provincial regulatory issue), hold proper Class 4 licences and have their vehicles undergo safety checks. The city dropped required safety inspections to once a year, rather than an initial ask of twice a year.

READ MORE: ‘Uber can’t operate in Calgary’ under approved bylaw, says spokesperson

With files from Tracy Nagai and Erika Tucker