Halifax council to discuss providing more oversight for ride-hailing companies

HALIFAX - Halifax regional council is today expected to discuss proposed bylaw changes aimed at providing more oversight of Uber and other ride-hailing companies. Uber is opposed to the changes, saying they would lead to higher fares, too much red tape and additional fees for drivers. Last month, council was presented with a staff report recommending that licensing requirements for ride-hailing services be brought in line with rules covering taxi and limousine companies. Under the existing system, taxi and limousine drivers must send the municipality results from training and background checks, which include scans for criminal records and child abuse allegations. Ride-hailing drivers are subject to the same checks and training, but the oversight is currently provided by companies like Uber, not the municipality. The bylaw changes, which include making it easier for taxi companies to change their fares, are up for first reading. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 13, 2026.