The city of Annapolis wants ride-sharing service Uber -- which bills itself as a "taxi alternative" -- to stop operating in Maryland's capital until it registers as a cab service.
Riders connect with drivers using Uber's smartphone app. The company has been operating in Annapolis since May.
On June 25, acting City Manager Brian Woodward sent a letter to the company explaining city law, including a definition of a taxi as a vehicle for hire that carries seven or fewer people.
The city wants Uber to submit an application for a taxicab license. The Capital reports that the city also says Uber needs to apply for a state motor-vehicle permit.
However, Uber spokesperson Taylor Bennett said Uber is a technology platform, not a taxi company. She says Uber looks forward to "educating city officials'' and developing a solution.
The order came less than two weeks after more than 30 Maryland cab companies filed a lawsuit against Uber, claiming the company hinders their ability to do business.
The lawsuit claims Uber's surge-pricing model creates an unfair marketplace, the Baltimore Sun reported.
Maryland drivers are not alone in protesting the app. Taxis affiliated with the D.C. Taxi Operators Association gridlocked traffic on Pennsylvania Avenue last month, and Virginia officials have barred the company from operating in the state.
