Pedicabs — or as they're commonly referred to, rickshaws — have been a part of London's street scene for a good three decades. Now, they're about to feel the impact of a significant shake-up in regulations. As in, they'll actually be regulated.
We've previously reported on TfL's intention to crack down on certain pedicab malpractices, including dangerous driving, noise pollution and extortionate fare charging.
As it launches a second, more in-depth, public consultation on the future of pedicabs, TfL — which was granted powers to regulate pedicabs under the Pedicabs (London) Act 2024 — says it wants to have regulation in place by early 2026. It would ideally include:
- Enhanced criminal record checks and medical checks for drivers, as well as driver assessments
- Annual licensing inspections for pedicabs, including the checking of brakes, tyres, lighting and batteries
- Regulated fares to be based on journey time with a per minute rate and minimum fare
- Doing away with amplified audio systems (sorry, ABBA fans)
- Issuing driver ID badges and pedicab licence plates
- Drivers to only stop to pick up or drop off where it's safe to do so.
All of the above sounds unrevolutionary — yet until now, pedicabs have existed on London's streets without regulation. Which is rather startling, really.
Says the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan:
Pedicabs should be a fun and green way to see the sights of our city, but without regulation some drivers are behaving unsafely and anti-socially.
I've always been clear that regulation and licensing for the pedicabs industry in London is needed so that we can significantly improve safety, drive-up standards and bring an end to tourists and Londoners being over-charged.
TfL has already received overwhelming support for regulation of the industry, and I encourage Londoners, businesses, and operators to have their say on the new proposals so that we can continue building a fairer and safer London for everyone.
The first consultation, which launched earlier in the year, received over 7,500 responses, with 75% of respondents saying they currently feel unsafe using pedicabs and 85% stating fares were too expensive. How many of the respondents have actually hired a pedicab, however, is unclear.
You can take part in the consultation here. It's open until Monday 20 October 2025.
