A.  The requirements of Chapter 16.40 – along with any penalties that may be assessed for violations of Chapter 16.40 – apply to all for-hire transportation companies, vehicles and drivers, whether legally and validly permitted or not. 

B.  It is not a defense to any regulatory action (including penalties and fines) to assert that the City cannot act because the driver, company or vehicle does not possess a valid City-issued permit, decal or taxiplate.