The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) board approved a new administrative penalty program for fare evasion and certain passenger conduct violations, marking a significant shift in how the transit system will address fare evasion.

The action authorizes MTS to establish an administrative process for eligible violations, moving away from the current criminal enforcement model.

Under the new framework, riders who receive eligible citations would have access to an administrative review process rather than having citations handled through the criminal court system.

“My goal since I began advocating for this change in 2019 has been to prevent a missed transit fare from becoming a financial burden that follows someone for years," said Monica Montgomery Steppe, MTS chair pro tem. “A $3 fare should not lead to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fines and fees. This proposal would give people a more reasonable way to resolve minor violations without having to navigate the criminal court system.”

Mechanics of San Diego’s New System

Under the approved administrative process, unpaid citations could still be referred for collection. However, the total penalty, including late fees and collection fees, would be limited to $125 per citation. The administrative process also provides options for people who cannot afford to pay, including installment payments, deferred payments, and community service.

Implementation of the program is not expected to occur immediately.

After the board acts, MTS will begin procuring the technology, equipment, and administrative services needed to support the new program. The transition is expected to take approximately two years, with implementation anticipated by Jan. 1, 2029.

“This is a significant step toward making fare enforcement fairer and more proportionate, particularly for people already struggling financially,” said Montgomery Steppe.

A Growing Trend in Transit

Transit agencies across the U.S. have implemented measures to address fare evasion, including upgraded fare gates, increased inspections, administrative citations, and alternative payment programs.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) installed higher, more secure fare gates at all 98 Metrorail stations, reporting an 82% reduction in rail fare evasion following the upgrades.

Meanwhile, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) completed installing next-generation fare gates at all 50 stations in August 2025, estimating the improvements generate about $10 million in additional annual fare revenue.

In New York, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has been testing modernized fare gates and reports preliminary fare evasion reductions of 20% to 70% at pilot locations. The agency plans to expand the technology to 150 stations by 2029.

Other agencies have implemented administrative enforcement programs. King County Metro in Seattle resumed fare inspections in 2025 under a policy that provides two warnings before issuing fines or offering alternative resolutions, including enrollment in reduced-fare programs and community service.