King County Metro resumes fare enforcement March 31 — Here’s what riders need to know

Starting Monday, March 31, King County Metro will begin reinforcing its fares, asking riders for proof of payment on buses and street cars.

King County Metro is re-installing fare enforcement after initially pausing it during the COVID-19 pandemic. At least 30 uniformed officers will be patrolling to see if riders have paid their ticket or if their ORCA card is active with sufficient funds.

Metro will focus inspections on rapid-ride routes, other high ridership bus routes, and the Seattle street car. Those who don’t pay will initially get a warning, but those consistently avoiding paying will be subject to fines.

Consequences for skipping metro fares

“Fare inspection will fully resume starting on May 31, 2025. In place of verbal reminders, riders who do not pay will receive a written warning,” Sean Hawks, Director of Communications and Marketing at King County Metro Transit, stated. “Riders can receive two of these written warnings without consequence. However, third and subsequent violations may result in a fine or an alternative resolution.”

For people who have been caught skipping fares three or more times, the rider may choose to pay a fine of $20 within 30 days, or $40 within 90 days, load $20 onto an ORCA card, or commit themselves to two hours of community service. Reduced-fare programs are also active to help those struggling to afford transportation “because the freedom to move is a human right,’ according to King County Metro.

“While Metro has always been committed to an equitable approach to fare inspection, the SaFE Equity Workgroup guided additional changes,” Hawks wrote. “Some of the improvements include more affordable fines, more forgiving policies regarding late payments, and lower minimum amounts to load on ORCA or ORCA LIFT cards for riders pursuing one of the alternative resolution options.”

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