Sheriff’s Office and North Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts Launch Effort to Tackle Pass Fraud

North Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts are reporting a surge in season pass fraud. Now, they've partnered with the Placer County Sheriff's Office to tackle the issue, according to an Instagram post. Pass fraud can involve individuals borrowing passes that do not belong to them, as well as counterfeit passes. The announcement serves as a reminder that pass-sharing violates both resort policies and state law.

Along with the price of season passes and day tickets, pass fraud is on the rise. Resort officials report that improper pass use has become more sophisticated, with some individuals attempting to doctor digital passes or resell single-use lift tickets.

Here's what the Sherrif's Office had to say:

"Ski resorts in the North Lake Tahoe area recently reported they have been experiencing an increase in season ski pass fraud. The Placer County Sheriff’s Office will be partnering with local ski resorts in an attempt to help crack down on these thefts."

Resorts are considering a range of new practices to alleviate the problem.

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

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.

While some skiers may see pass fraud as a harmless workaround, resorts say that it contributes to higher operational costs, which can in turn lead to increased pass prices. Additionally, fraudulent pass use might create security concerns and overcrowding, impacting the experience of paying guests.

North Lake Tahoe resorts are currently enjoying excellent snow conditions, with several feet of fresh snow in the last week or so. As winter continues in full swing, North Lake Tahoe’s sheriff’s office and ski resorts hope this initiative will foster a fair and enjoyable skiing environment for all. So, before you think about borrowing your friend’s pass, remember—getting caught might cost you more than just a lift ticket.