Number of Uber ride-share vehicles now capped in Toronto

Toronto has temporarily — some fear permanently — capped the number of Uber and Lyft ride-share vehicles that do business on its streets in a move some city councillors expect will help app company drivers and significantly reduce gas emissions.

The move was approved in surprise fashion on Wednesday at Toronto city council, where councillors voted 16-7 in favour of the unexpected motion that will see the number of drivers capped at the current level of about 52,000.

Canada’s largest city will immediately pause the issuance of new licences to those looking to run their own ride-share business, according to Toronto officials.

The motion specifically calls for the freeze to be temporary until city staff produce a report in 2024 on regulating the industry.

However, those on council opposed to the move fear it will become permanent and drive up trip prices. Additionally, they warn, the city might expect legal challenges from larger ride-share companies such as Uber.

Supporters of the move say it will increase pay for drivers by reducing competition in addition to helping the environment.

It’s not known if the ride-share matter is on the radar of other GTA municipal councils.

In 2018, New York City moved to limit the number of ride-share cars on the road there with an eye toward reducing emissions.