Seattle’s King County Metro is resuming fare inspections on buses for the first time in nearly five years, starting March 31, to address fairness concerns as ridership recovers. Currently, an estimated 34% of passengers do not pay their fares.
Metro emphasizes that this decision is mostly about fairness, ensuring all riders contribute to the transit system. To minimize disruptions, two to three fare enforcement officers will board buses at different doors and check proof of payment while in motion. Passengers must present an ORCA card or a valid paper transfer. Metro will deploy 30 inspectors from its 170 transit security officers to cover 139 routes and up to 920 buses during peak hours.
Initially, inspectors will issue verbal reminders to those without proof of payment. From May 31, fare evaders will receive two written warnings before a $20 fine, increasing to $40 if unpaid within 30 days. Violators can resolve citations by paying the fine, loading $20 onto an ORCA card, enrolling in a reduced-fare program, completing community service, or appealing. Unlike past policies, criminal penalties for fare evasion have been eliminated.
This decision follows extensive community feedback. Metro gathered input from 8,000 people, including riders and employees, many of whom requested a stronger presence on buses and clearer enforcement. “Paying fares is right up there with safety and respect,” said Metro spokesperson Sean Hawks.
Metro halted fare enforcement in 2020 due to COVID-19 and concerns over racial disparities in citations. Under the revised SaFE (Safety, Security, and Fare Enforcement) initiative, inspectors will check every passenger equally. If a rider lacks proof of payment, they may be asked for ID but can provide alternative verification, such as mail or shelter cards.
While Metro’s ridership is rebounding—exceeding 300,000 daily boardings on some days in 2024—fare revenue remains low, covering just 7% of operating costs in 2023 compared to 25% pre-pandemic. The Metropolitan King County Council recently adjusted Metro’s farebox recovery target to 10-15%. Metro hopes improved compliance will help meet this goal.
Transit advocates support the move. “We can’t have transit without fares,” said Kirk Hovenkotter, director of the Transportation Choices Coalition. Metro urges passengers to stay informed and carry valid proof of payment to avoid fines, aiming for a more equitable and financially sustainable transit system.
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