April 20, 2021 – Title 5 of Jackson’s Municipal Code, covering business licenses and general business regulations, was long overdue to be revised and updated. The Town’s Legal Department worked with a consultant reviewing the entire code over several months to ensure everything was still relevant and aligned with current laws.
Changes to Title 5 are in effect as of today and the Town wants to make the community aware of important updates including changes to taxi fares. The Town has regulated taxi fares since 2008, and this update includes the creation of a “Zone System” for ground transportation. This new system includes a maximum fare that can be charged, allows taxis to charge $4.00 for additional passengers above four persons, and utilizes an average rate of $3.15 per mile. Nationally, the average cost per mile for taxis falls between $2.50 and $3.50. These updates will ensure customers have predictable fares and that taxi company owners and drivers have reasonable returns. Town Council recognizes that taxis provide convenience and safe transportation options for residents and visitors and mitigate the need for visitors to rent vehicles.
CLICK HERE to see and download maps with the various zones. The Town encourages any and all businesses, especially hotels, bars, and other establishments that taxi cabs frequent, to post and share copies of these zone maps. The Town is also making these maps available through the Chamber of Commerce.
Licensing for long-term residential rentals is addressed in Title 5 as well and will remain the same. As a reminder, anyone leasing three or more residential dwellings or apartments must acquire and maintain a business license. These licenses is not required for individuals or businesses renting residential units to meet employee housing requirements, house employees outside of any housing requirement, or if one already has a business license from the Town.
Also as a reminder, any person, including agents and independent contractors, conducting business within the Town must obtain and maintain a general business license, which includes but is not limited to, real estate agents, attorneys, doctors, and hairstylists.