Action begins transition from a criminal enforcement model to an administrative process; implementation expected following a multi-year transition period
San Diego – The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Board of Directors today approved a new administrative penalty program for fare evasion and certain passenger conduct violations, marking a significant shift in how fare evasion will be addressed throughout the transit system.
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 and San Diego County Supervisor. "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."
Under the approved administrative process, unpaid citations could still be referred to a collection process. 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. Following the Board's action, MTS will begin the procurement process for 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," Montgomery Steppe added.
Additional information about the ordinance is available on the Oct. 15 Board of Directors meeting agenda (pages 161-215).
About MTS
The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates 93 bus routes and four Trolley lines in 10 cities and unincorporated areas of San Diego. MTS is a leader in advancing initiatives to create a greener, cleaner and better-connected transit system in San Diego. Each weekday, more than 250,000 passenger trips are taken throughout the MTS system, taking people to work, school, health appointments and other essential trips. In FY 2026, MTS served more than 81 million riders. In 2026, MTS was recognized by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) as the Outstanding Public Transportation System in North America among agencies providing 50 million or more annual passenger trips. For service schedule updates, news, alerts and more information on how you can use public transportation, go to www.sdmts.com.
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