Barcelona Authorities Agree on Ride-Hailing Regulations

Following another round of strikes by taxi drivers across major cities in Spain, the regional government of Catalonia has agreed to new rules to regulate ride-hailing apps operating in the region, Tech Crunch reports.

As part of the decree, bookings on ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Cabify must be made 15 minutes prior to pick-up; municipalities and local authorities can impose longer wait times. Apps can no longer show real-time locations of available drivers prior to booking a ride.

Additionally, ride-hailing vehicles waiting for their next booking can no longer circle the streets, they must return to a designated zone or parking structure. 

Previously, Cabify and Uber said they would end service if a wait time was mandated.

Catalonia authorities will impose fines on drivers who do not follow the new rules.