Yes, ticket scalping is legal in Ohio under specific conditions, but it is tightly regulated to curb fraud and protect consumers. Ohio Revised Code § 4737.99 criminalizes scalping only when tickets are obtained through deception or resold above face value at venues with seating capacities under 6,500. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement actively monitor violations, particularly during high-demand events like concerts or sports. Recent 2026 compliance guidance from the Ohio Department of Commerce emphasizes transparency in pricing and prohibits bots or automated tools to circumvent purchase limits.
Key Regulations for Scalping Tickets in Ohio
- Face Value Restrictions: Resale above face value is prohibited at venues with fewer than 6,500 seats unless the original purchaser transfers tickets through licensed platforms (e.g., Ticketmaster Resale, StubHub). Violations may result in misdemeanor charges under ORC § 4737.99.
- Anti-Bot Provisions: Ohio’s 2026 amendments to ORC § 1349.32 criminalize the use of software or bots to circumvent ticket purchase limits, with penalties including fines up to $20,000 per violation. The Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act empowers the AG to pursue enforcement.
- Licensing Requirements: Brokers reselling tickets for profit must register with the Ohio Department of Commerce if operating as secondary market platforms. Local municipalities (e.g., Cleveland, Columbus) may impose additional permitting for street vendors or third-party resellers.