A proposed California ticket resale law could dramatically change how concert tickets are bought and sold across the state. The legislation, currently moving through Sacramento, would limit resale prices for concert and live entertainment tickets to no more than 10% above the original purchase price, including fees.  

If passed, the bill could have a major impact on the secondary ticket market for venues like the Hollywood Bowl.

For years, fans have complained about ticket prices skyrocketing moments after concerts go on sale. In many cases, tickets purchased at face value quickly appear on resale platforms for several times the original cost. Supporters of the new law argue that large-scale scalpers and automated ticket-buying systems have made live entertainment increasingly unaffordable for average fans.  

What the California Ticket Resale Law Would Do

Under Assembly Bill 1720, resale tickets for concerts, plays, and other live entertainment events in California would be limited to a 10% markup above the original all-in price paid by the first buyer.  

For example, if a ticket originally cost $100 plus $20 in fees, the maximum resale price would be approximately $132 total.

The proposal would also require greater transparency by showing buyers the original ticket price when purchasing through resale platforms. In addition, a separate bill would prohibit speculative ticket sales, where sellers advertise tickets they do not yet possess.  

How This Could Affect Hollywood Bowl Fans

The Hollywood Bowl has become one of the hottest resale markets in Los Angeles during the summer concert season. Popular shows, opening nights, fireworks performances, and major artists often see ticket prices surge shortly after public sales begin.

If the California ticket resale law becomes reality, it could reduce extreme markups for many Bowl performances. As a result, more fans may gain access to tickets closer to face value.

However, critics argue the proposal could create unintended consequences. Some resale companies and consumer groups claim the law may reduce competition while giving even more control to major ticketing companies such as Ticketmaster and Live Nation.  

Others question whether scalpers would simply move transactions to private groups or alternative marketplaces that are harder to regulate.

A Growing Debate Around Concert Tickets

The debate over ticket resales intensified after several high-profile tours generated massive demand and soaring secondary-market prices. California lawmakers say the goal is to protect consumers from excessive markups while improving transparency in the ticket-buying process.  

At the same time, the live entertainment industry continues to wrestle with issues involving bots, dynamic pricing, and limited ticket inventory.

For Hollywood Bowl fans, the proposal raises an interesting question: would stricter resale limits make concerts more affordable, or would they make tickets even harder to find?

Planning Ahead for Hollywood Bowl Shows

Whether or not the legislation passes, demand for major Hollywood Bowl concerts is unlikely to slow down anytime soon.

Before purchasing tickets, take a look at our Hollywood Bowl seating chart and browse real Hollywood Bowl seat views to help find the best sections.