A seismic shift is coming to the world of Ontario event tickets. Ticketmaster Canada is proactively removing all current resale listings in anticipation of a new law designed to protect fans from exorbitant prices.
The change stems from a recently passed provincial budget bill that directly addresses the issue of ticket scalping. This legislation will cap resale prices at the original all-in purchase price – meaning what the buyer initially paid, including taxes and fees.
Ticketmaster has begun directly notifying sellers of the impending changes, explaining that their listings are being removed to ensure compliance. The company plans to update its resale marketplace next week, allowing users to relist tickets under the new regulations.
The move signals support for Ontario’s Bill 97, which aims to create a more equitable and transparent resale market. Ticketmaster framed the cap as a vital step towards fairness for event attendees.
For years, fans have faced frustration and financial strain as popular events – from Taylor Swift’s record-breaking tour to highly anticipated sporting events like the 2025 World Series – saw tickets snatched up by resellers and marked up to staggering amounts.
The new law seeks to eliminate this practice of price gouging, ensuring that resale tickets remain accessible and affordable. It effectively makes it illegal to profit excessively from the demand for live experiences.
While Bill 97 is currently awaiting royal assent, Ticketmaster is acting now to prepare for its implementation. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to aligning with the province’s consumer protection goals.
The amendments to the Tickets Sales Act of 2017 will cover a wide range of events, including concerts, sporting competitions, and cultural performances, offering broad protection to Ontario residents.
