City preparing to assume responsibility for taxi licensing and regulation

The City of Kingston is preparing to assume responsibility for regulating and licensing taxicab services in Kingston, with a transition from the Kingston Area Taxi Commission (KATC) set to take effect on Oct. 1, 2026.  

The transition will introduce a new City-administered regulatory framework designed to support public safety, accessibility, customer service, accountability and compliance, while ensuring taxi services continue without interruption. 

"Through this transition, residents and industry stakeholders will continue to have access to safe, reliable and regulated transportation services while benefiting from an efficient, City-administered framework," says Kyle Compeau, Director of Licensing & Enforcement Services. 

Starting Oct. 1, the City will be responsible for licensing taxicab drivers, plateholders and brokers, as well as administering compliance monitoring, complaint management, inspections and enforcement activities.  

Industry stakeholders are encouraged to review upcoming requirements and take steps to ensure they are prepared for implementation. Taxicab brokers will also assume expanded responsibilities related to driver screening, training, oversight and reporting. 

As part of the transition, the KATC office will close on Sept. 25, 2026. Licensing services will reopen at 1211 John Counter Blvd. on Oct. 5, 2026. 

Residents, visitors and industry stakeholders will be able to access information, licensing services and complaint processes through the City of Kingston. Taxi services will continue to operate throughout the transition period.  

For more information, visit the City’s Passenger Transportation Services website.