Licensing
Dartford Borough Council is the licensing authority under the Licensing Act 2003 and is responsible for granting premises licences, club premises certificates, temporary events notices and personal licences in the Borough in respect of the sale and supply of alcohol.
For more detailed information visit the Dartford Borough Council's Licensing web page (opens in a new window).
Taxi Licensing
Dartford Borough Council is also responsible for the licensing of both hackney carriages (black taxis) and private hire vehicles (mini cabs) and their drivers.
There are individual licences for vehicles, drivers and operators. The main difference between the two types of cab is that black taxis can ply for hire (be stopped in the street). Private hire vehicles have to be pre-booked at an office licensed by the Council. Before issuing a licence the Council must be satisfied that drivers are fit and proper persons to hold a licence and that the vehicle meets certain strict criteria on condition and age. Drivers must take a knowledge test before being granted an appropriate licence.
For more detailed information visit the Dartford Borough Council's Licensing web page.
Grabbacab
Grabbacab is a taxi marshalling scheme that operates on Friday and Saturday evenings, between 2330 and 0330 in the town centre at Market Street and at some additional times, Christmas Eve and New Years Eve.
Taxi marshals equipped with head cameras, provide security and assist persons to get a cab home after a night out in the town. CCTV cameras cover the area for added security. Both private hire vehicles and black cabs use Market Street to pick up passengers for a safe journey home. Passengers wanting a private hire vehicle (mini cab) should book a cab using the mobile office on site. Black cabs, if available will be waiting on the temporary rank. The scheme, funded by Dartford Borough Council, Kent Police and multi agency partners has made a real difference to crime and safety in the town centre at night.
For your personal safety, always use a licensed cab
For more detailed information contact the Dartford Community Safety Unit on 01322 343000