PASSED

The enacted ordinance requires tour guides who are paid to lead tours on public rights-of-way in the Center City Tourist Area—from the Delaware River to the Schuylkill River and from Vine Street to South Street—to obtain a city certificate. Applicants must be at least 16, pay a $25 application fee, pass a written test or qualify for an exemption, and provide proof of liability insurance; certificates last two years and guides must wear an identification badge. Volunteers, teachers guiding students, and tours on private property are exempt, while violations can lead to penalties and, after a third violation within three years, suspension of a business privilege license.

Amending Chapter 9-200 of The Philadelphia Code, entitled "Commercial Activities on Streets," by adding a new section providing for the certification of tour guides in certain areas of the city, establishing requirements for such certification, and providing for penalties for violations, all under certain terms and conditions.