Edmonton vows crackdown as Uber drivers start charging fares

Uber drivers are now charging for rides in Edmonton, even though the city considers the ride-share service illegal.

The company launched in Edmonton a week and a half ago. Rides were free until last Friday.

Uber drivers aren’t licensed by the city, which means they are running afoul of the Vehicle for Hire bylaw whenever they accept payment.

Director of licensing Garry Dizwenka says the city will start issuing tickets worth $1,400 or more.

"We're out there,” he said. “We do consider you illegal and we will be looking for you and issuing tickets."

The drivers CBC spoke with on Monday declined to be interviewed but they are accepting payment for rides.

Uber said city regulations need to be updated to take into account new ride-share technology.

Company spokesman Xavier Van Chau said Uber wants to work with the city.

“Just a few years ago, this type of technology that could connect riders and drivers didn't exist,” he said. “And so the regulations that are on the books couldn't have taken account of the realities of the technology that we have today.”

City council plans to discuss the issue when a report from administration is ready in January.