SEPTA ramps up fare evasion enforcement with increased police collaboration

During a recent budget hearing held by the Philadelphia City Council, significant concerns regarding fare evasion and smoking on public transit were raised, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The discussions underscored the impact of these issues on both the safety and comfort of commuters.

Fare evasion has emerged as a pressing problem, with reports of individuals easily bypassing fare gates. One council member recounted a personal experience witnessing multiple young men hop over barriers without consequence. This behavior not only undermines the financial stability of the transit system but also affects the overall experience of law-abiding passengers.

In response to the growing issue of fare evasion, SEPTA officials reported a substantial increase in enforcement efforts. The police department's enforcement of fare evasion has surged by 67% over the past year, with an additional 71% increase noted in the first quarter of 2025. This escalation in enforcement is part of a broader strategy to address fare evasion, which has been identified as a top priority for the organization. SEPTA has shifted from an administrative model to a criminal justice approach, increasing fines and enhancing tracking capabilities to better manage the situation.

Moreover, smoking on public transit has been highlighted as the number one complaint from customers, surpassing even fare evasion in terms of passenger dissatisfaction. SEPTA has previously collaborated with the city on a smoke-free campaign, which yielded positive results. Officials expressed intentions to apply similar strategies to combat fare evasion, aiming to educate the public about the importance of fare compliance and its implications for the transit system.

The discussions at the budget hearing reflect a commitment from both SEPTA and city officials to improve the transit experience for all riders. As enforcement measures ramp up, the community will be watching closely to see if these efforts lead to a safer and more pleasant commuting environment. The next steps will involve continued collaboration between SEPTA, law enforcement, and the courts to ensure that fare evasion is effectively addressed, while also maintaining a focus on reducing smoking incidents on public transportation.