SAN DIEGO -- The Metropolitan Transit System board unanimously Thursday approved more stringent regulations on taxis that operate in San Diego due to a rise in safety and operating violations.

The regulations give MTS the authority to revoke or suspend taxi permits for a range of violations, including missing, improper or malfunctioning safety equipment; operating without proof of insurance; intentionally driving an unsafe vehicle; not giving customers a receipt; overcharging; carrying too many passengers; and improper driver appearance. San Diego City Councilman Todd Gloria, who sits on the 15-member MTS board, said previous administrative penalties were inadequate to ensure the proper safety and maintenance of taxis.

"Taxicabs will be safer thanks to the guidelines passed by MTS today," Gloria said. "The new stricter penalties will improve compliance among taxicab permit holders, and the passengers and general public will be better protected."

During an MTS inspection last year, 85 percent of taxis checked were removed from service due to poor condition, such as bad tires, unsafe brakes, body damage and unsecured seats.