A NEW ban on pedicabs charging “rip off” fares and “blaring out” loud music has come into force in London.
The regulations also require drivers to undergo enhanced criminal checks and meet requirements.
The ban follows horror stories of , and a woman being fleeced £450 for a seven-minute ride.
Other complaints have been made about riders blocking pavements and cabs blaring out loud music.
As outlined by Transport for London (TFL), from October 30 pedicab drivers can only charge a £5 base fare and up to £1 a minute for each ride across the capital.
They must also undergo enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Services) checks, hold a full or valid theory test certificate and meet English language requirements.
Under the new rules, from October 30 operators of the vehicles must keep records and carry out fire assessment risks on premises.
All pedicab vehicles will have to display a valid licence from February 2027.
, the Mayor of London, said: “After years of campaigning, I’m pleased that TfL will be regulating pedicabs across the capital to ensure they meet proper operational standards.
“Pedicabs should be a fun way to explore London – but too often people face rip-off fares, blaring music and unsafe behaviour.
“We’re bringing in these new rules so that both customers and drivers can benefit from an industry that is more safe, reliable and professional.
“This will play an important role in supporting our vital night-time economy and enabling more people to enjoy all that our great city has to offer as we continue building a safer, fairer, greener London for everyone.”
