La. R.S. 33:4404

The governing authority of any municipality, City of New Orleans excepted, incorporated under the general or special laws of this state, may grant a franchise to any person, to use and occupy the streets, alleys, highways, bridges, or other public places therein for operation of motor buses, trackless trolleys, and other forms of transportation for the purpose of transporting passengers for hire within the limits of the municipality. The franchise shall not be exclusive, nor be for a longer period than twenty-five years, and shall be subject to any conditions and stipulations prescribed by the governing authority. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to municipalities which are required under the provisions of their charter to hold referendum elections to grant or lease franchises, nor to municipalities which under existing laws are required to hold such elections.