(1) Definitions.
    (a) “”Department”” means the Florida Department of Transportation.
    (b) “”Governmental Entity”” means as defined in Florida Statutes § 11.45
    (2) The 511 dialing code is reserved for the provision of traveler information. The 511 dialing code may not be used for any other purpose.
    (3) Any person or entity wishing to provide traveler information utilizing the 511 dialing code anywhere in the state shall demonstrate to the Department the following criteria:
    (a) The ability to provide traveler information that is pertinent to the general public;
    (b) The ability to provide traveler information in a timely and accurate manner;
    (c) The ability to provide traveler information through a telephonic system that can handle a reasonable number of calls (capacity to handle 98% of the anticipated calls without a busy signal);
    (d) The ability to expand the telephonic system to accommodate a greater number of calls;
    (e) The ability to provide traveler information at no more than the cost of a local call to the end user;
    (f) An understanding of the telecommunication industry and how wireless telecommunication systems work; and,
    (g) A dedication both in policy and financial programming to continue to offer traveler information for a five-year period.
The Department shall authorize the use of the 511 dialing code if the governmental entity requesting the use of the 511 dialing code meets the criteria above and no 511 dialing code has been previously implemented in the area being considered for 511 service.
    (4) Any governmental entity authorized to disseminate traveler information through the use of the 511 dialing code may license or transfer the authority to another governmental entity meeting the criteria set forth in the paragraph above. The governmental entity shall be responsible for all costs to implement the 511 dialing code, including tariff or other charges assessed by its provider of 511 dialing code.
    (5) At no time shall the authorized use of the 511 dialing code imply any ownership of the dialing code by a governmental entity authorized to use the 511 dialing code.
Rulemaking Authority 334.60 FS. Law Implemented 334.03, 334.044, 334.60 FS. History-New 8-15-04.