Barrie 
Ontario is moving to clamp down on soaring ticket resale prices, with new rules that could reshape how fans buy and sell tickets.
Credit: Ontario
The provincial government says it plans to amend the Ticket Sales Act, 2017 to make it illegal to resell tickets for more than their original purchase price. That includes the full amount paid to the primary seller, along with any fees, service charges, or taxes.
The proposal, announced on March 20, 2026, is aimed at curbing professional resellers who drive up prices for concerts, sporting events, and other live events.
Stephen Crawford, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, said the goal is simple. Fans should not feel taken advantage of when trying to see their favourite artists or teams. He added that the changes would give families more confidence when buying resale tickets.
The government also plans to tighten rules around ticket validity to reduce the risk of fake tickets being sold. At the same time, it is looking at new powers to address unfair service fees during the buying process.
Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport, pointed to the frustration many families face when resale prices spike far beyond reach. He said the changes are meant to make live events more accessible.
Tourism Minister Stan Cho echoed that, noting Ontario’s busy live event scene and the need to keep it affordable for both residents and visitors.
If passed, the price cap would apply to all future resales and to anyone involved, including resale platforms.
Currently, businesses can face penalties of up to $10,000 for breaking ticketing rules. The province says it will also consult on additional administrative penalties.
More details are expected in Ontario’s 2026 Budget on March 26.
