Industry News
As the cost of day tickets and season passes continue to rise, North Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts are reporting a surge in season pass fraud, prompting the Placer County Sheriff’s Office to intervene. According to an Instagram post, the issue involves individuals using passes or lift tickets that do not belong to them, violating both resort policies and state law.
Deputy John Weaver emphasized that using someone else’s pass is a crime, with those caught facing legal consequences. To combat this, resorts and law enforcement are implementing more rigorous verification processes and educating the public about the repercussions of pass misuse.
“We want to make it clear that using someone else’s pass or lift ticket isn’t just frowned upon—it’s a criminal act. Those caught will face legal consequences.”
– Deputy John Weaver
Resorts are considering enhanced security measures, such as more frequent identification checks and advanced scanning technology. Skiers and snowboarders are advised to secure their passes and report any lost or stolen ones. Many resorts offer pass protection programs to mitigate financial losses.
Though specific numbers aren’t available, resort managers say the problem has grown severe enough to warrant a joint effort with law enforcement.
“Any person who uses or attempts to use ski area facilities for which payment is required without paying as required, or who resells a ski lift ticket to another when the resale is not authorized by the proprietor, is guilty of an infraction.”
– California Penal Code § 537
North Lake Tahoe resorts are currently enjoying excellent snow conditions, with several feet of fresh snow in the last week or so.
In California, ski pass fraud—such as sharing, using an unauthorized pass, or altering one—can have serious legal and financial consequences. Under Penal Code § 537, theft of services under $950 is considered petty theft, punishable by fines up to $1,000 and six months in jail, while theft exceeding this amount could result in grand theft charges with harsher penalties. Forging or altering a pass falls under Penal Code § 470, a wobbler offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor (up to one year in jail) or felony (up to three years in prison). Additionally, refusing to leave when caught may result in trespassing charges (Penal Code § 602). Beyond legal penalties, resorts impose strict consequences, including immediate pass revocation, hefty fines, and potential bans. Some resorts charge $500 or more in penalties, and repeat offenders may face civil lawsuits.
