After Labour Day, Translink will have a better ability to actually force people to pay tickets for fare evasion.

A new by-law goes into effect September 4th, replacing a provincial statute that allowed fare cheats to escape penalty.

Under the new rules, those found in a "fare paid zone" without a ticket will get a 173-dollar fine, which escalates to 213-dollars if it isn't paid within 180-days, and 273-dollars after one year.

Outstanding fines may be referred to a collection agency, and ICBC may also refuse to issue or renew a person's driver's license or car insurance if they haven't paid up.

The changes come after CKNW exposed only 14-percent of tickets were paid last year -- with no consequence for those who didn't.