Somerset Council has approved an update to the maximum fares licensed taxi drivers can charge across the county.
The changes reflect increases in operating costs and the cost of living since fares were last adjusted in May 2024. The fares are the maximum taxi firms can charge; operators can continue to offer cheaper fares if they choose to do so.
The approved changes include:
- The maximum standard fare for journeys of up to one mile rising from £4.60 to £5.06.
- Increases to maximum charges for additional mileage and waiting time.
- Soiling fees and holiday surcharges remaining unchanged.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of economic conditions, including a 10.69% rise in the cost of living and substantial increases in fuel, insurance and vehicle maintenance costs.
The changes aim to balance the affordability of taxi services for passengers with the need to support a sustainable local taxi trade and maintain availability across the county.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change, said:
“Regularly reviewing taxi fares is essential to ensure that Somerset residents and visitors continue to have access to safe, reliable and regulated transport.
“These changes reflect the real-world pressures faced by drivers while keeping fares competitive with neighbouring areas.”
The revised fare structure sets the maximum fares that can be charged by licensed hackney carriage taxis in Somerset. Drivers are not required to charge these rates and may continue to charge lower fares if they choose.
Under the new rates, a standard two-mile journey will cost a maximum of £8.60, compared with the current maximum fare of £7.60.
The updated fare table will come into force no later than 19 September 2026.
