THE Land Transport Authority has warned all taxi drivers they must use taxi meters within a distance of 16km.
LTA spokesman Eroni Volavola said drivers failing to adhere to this amended regulation would face a spot fine of $25 or the matter would be referred to the courts where the maximum fine is $200 or 30 days in jail.
There is also a spot fine of $50 for charging incorrect fare.
Mr Volavola said taxi drivers in the west have not been following proper procedures and were being monitored. "We hope the drivers are taking our warning seriously because if we receive more than two complaints about a driver, LTA has powers to suspend the permit of the taxi driver," said Mr Volavola.