Costs go up for tram fare dodgers as NET updates it's Penalty Fare policy this May.

Fare dodgers in Nottingham could risk a costly mistake, as tram operator Nottingham Express Transit (NET) shares an update to its Penalty Fares which come into place next month.

As part of the network’s zero tolerance policy towards fare evasion, anyone caught travelling without a valid ticket or pass receives a ‘no questions asked’ Penalty Fare Notice (PFN). From 1 May 2026, the cost of a PFN will increase from £70 to £120 - with a new early payment discount now available, reducing the cost for first time offenders to £60 if paid within 14 days.

In 2023, to crack down on fare evasion, NET re-affirmed its ‘zero tolerance’ commitment to reinforce the message that fare evasion is theft, and this remains an ongoing policy across the network. In 2025, more than 10,000 people were caught travelling without a valid ticket, and NET hopes the new PFN update will serve to further deter other fare dodgers.

Tim Hesketh, CEO at NET said: “Fare evasion is theft, and isn’t something we take lightly, so this PFN increase acts as a way for us to strengthen this message by increasing the risk for those who see it as something trivial. If left unpaid, a PFN leaves the recipient liable for prosecution with a further fine of up to £1,000 and a criminal record next to their name too. We’re all aware that if you’re caught shoplifting you would expect to be prosecuted, so similarly, anyone caught travelling without a valid ticket – which is a crime - should expect to be treated accordingly.

“The last time we increased the cost of a PFN was five years ago, and while the cost of a PFN is much higher now, there are also more options available due to the early payment discount.

“Just like most of the public who pay for their ticket and use the trams properly, we want to ensure that our network is safe to use, and reducing fare dodging is part of that. By paying for your ticket, you’re also helping to support this vital transport infrastructure in the city, that thousands of people rely on to get to work, visit family and more.

“If anyone is ever unsure on how to purchase their ticket or validate their pass, there are signs to assist people at each tram stop, as well as help points that give you the chance to speak to a member of the team to answer any questions.”

For more information on NET’s Penalty Fare and Appeals process, visit www.thetram.net/penalty-fares