Facebook Marketplace has become a popular platform for buying and selling all sorts of items, from furniture and electronics to clothing and collectibles. With its huge user base and easy listing process, Marketplace makes it simple for users to connect with interested local buyers. However, while most everyday items are fair game, there are certain restrictions around what can and cannot be sold on Facebook Marketplace. One common question is whether concert or event tickets can be listed and sold through Marketplace. Here is an in-depth look at Facebook’s policies around selling tickets, the risks involved, and tips for safely selling concert tickets.
Facebook’s policies on selling tickets
Facebook has specific rules prohibiting the sale of certain regulated goods, including alcohol, firearms, pharmaceuticals, and illegal drugs. Event tickets are not specifically called out in their commerce policies. However, Facebook does prohibit any listings that violate applicable laws or regulations. Per their Commerce Policies:
“Ensure you comply with laws and regulations when buying or selling regulated goods. Only engage in legal transactions. Don’t list alcohol, health products making medical claims, tobacco, firearms, or any other products requiring a license to buy or sell unless you are authorized.”
In the United States, ticket resale laws vary by state. Many states have implemented regulations around reselling event tickets, with some imposing price caps or requiring the seller to be authorized. For example, in New York it is illegal to resell tickets to entertainment events like concerts or sports games if the resale price is more than 45% above face value. So while Facebook’s policy does not explicitly ban selling tickets, doing so could violate applicable ticket resale laws depending on location.
Facebook does state that buying event tickets is allowed through Marketplace and provides tips for avoiding ticket scams. However, they stop short of endorsing the sale of tickets by individual users. It appears to be somewhat of a gray area, so those looking to sell concert or sports tickets should carefully research any relevant state laws.
The risks of selling tickets on Facebook
Beyond potentially violating local ticket resale regulations, there are a few key risks to keep in mind when selling event tickets through Facebook Marketplace or similar platforms:
- No buyer/seller protections – Unlike ticket resale sites like StubHub that provide guarantees, selling tickets privately on Facebook comes with no built-in protections for buyers or sellers. It may be difficult to get money back if sold fake or unusable tickets.
- Scams – As Facebook warns, fake ticket scams abound both online and offline. Savvy scammers may try to sell fake or already used tickets.
- Limited venue transfer options – Many major event venues now require tickets to be transferred officially through the issuer for security purposes. Peer-to-peer transfers may not be allowed.
- Violating ticket terms – Most tickets have terms and conditions that restrict resale. Selling tickets privately could violate those terms.
While these risks exist, it is certainly possible to safely and legally sell real event tickets through Facebook Marketplace as long as proper precautions are taken.
Tips for selling concert tickets on Facebook
Those comfortable with the risks involved can follow certain best practices to sell event tickets successfully on Facebook:
- Research applicable laws – First, research any state or local laws regulating ticket resales. Consider getting a required reseller license if needed.
- Review ticket terms – Check the original ticket terms to ensure transfers are allowed. Many restrict resale.
- Verify with the venue – Contact the venue to confirm their ticket transfer policies and procedures.
- Only sell unused tickets – Never try to resell a ticket that has already been scanned or used to enter an event.
- Price fairly – Avoid pricing tickets exorbitantly higher than face value, as that may be illegal in some states.
- Meet in person – Arrange to meet local buyers in person and only accept cash payments. This avoids scams.
- Be transparent – Disclose and document if tickets have been transferred from the original buyer.
Properly vetting your tickets, pricing fairly, and only selling locally can help mitigate some of the unique risks that come with reselling tickets peer-to-peer. However, even if following best practices, there is no guarantee of avoiding issues.
Alternatives to consider
Given the gray area and potential pitfalls, those looking to resell event tickets may want to consider using alternative platforms better designed for secure ticket resales. Some options include:
- StubHub – Large ticket marketplace with guarantees against invalid tickets.
- Vivid Seats – Resale site with 100% Buyer Guarantee to protect against fakes.
- Ticketmaster – Largest primary ticket seller that also facilitates exchanges.
- Craigslist – Popular classifieds site with dedicated ticket categories.
- eBay – Auction site that allows ticket resales under certain conditions.
These sites tend to offer more protections for buyers and sellers. They also handle the ticket transfer process securely while complying with applicable resale laws and regulations. However, they do charge higher fees compared to direct peer-to-peer sales.
Conclusion
In summary, while Facebook does not outright prohibit selling event tickets on Marketplace, doing so can pose certain legal and security risks. Those who choose to sell concert or sports tickets privately should thoroughly research applicable laws, vet their tickets, and take precautions when transacting locally. For most users, selling through reputable resale platforms may provide more peace of mind. But with proper diligence, it is possible for individual sellers to safely resell event tickets peer-to-peer if desired.
