Highway Traffic Act – High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes Regulatory Amendment

ERO number
019-1673
Notice type
Bulletin
Act
Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990
Posted by
Ministry of Transportation
Bulletin posted
Last updated

This notice is for informational purposes only. There is no requirement to consult on this initiative on the Environmental Registry of Ontario. Learn more about the types of notices on the registry.

Bulletin summary

We are proposing an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act, O. Reg. 620/05 - High Occupancy Lanes for the purpose of allowing single-occupant licenced taxicabs and airport limousines in provincial HOV Lanes, on a permanent basis. Singles-occupant licenced taxis and limousines are currently allowed to use HOV lanes as part of a pilot program.

Why consultation isn't required

The pilot exemption was first introduced in 2012 to promote more efficient use of the transportation network by allowing taxis and airport limousines to reach their next passenger more quickly, support accessibility for people who cannot or choose not to drive, and in response to requests from the taxi and limousine industry. 

After the subsequent extensions in 2015, 2016, and 2018, the pilot has been successful for the past eight years, and the volumes of taxicabs and limousines have been accommodated without significantly impacting the capacity of HOV lanes. 

Under the Environmental Bill of Rights Act, MTO is not required to post changes to regulations for public consultation. This amendment is also posted on the Regulatory Registry for public input (more information is provided below).

Bulletin details

Continuing to allow occupancy exemption for taxis and airport limousines will support the objective of the HOV network plan by encouraging a more efficient use of the transportation network by allowing taxicabs and airport limousines to reach their next passenger more quickly and supports accessibility for people who cannot or choose not to drive.

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