This week, Knott's Berry Farm changed its formerly mandatory paid ride lockers for three of its most popular roller coasters (GhostRider, Silver Bullet, and HangTime) to free for the first two hours. Since September 8th, the lockers had been a $3 charge for the first two hours, or a $15 charge for all-day use at any of the three roller coasters. The new language can be found under the "Ride Lockers" section on its FAQ page, https://www.knotts.com/frequently-asked-questions.
The reason Knott's gave for the initial change to paid ride lockers was 1) decreasing time required for riders to be ready for train dispatch and making the ride more efficient, 2) safety for objects that might fall out during the ride, and 3) security for items left in cubbies next to the ride platform during the ride. Other coasters at Knott's such as Xcelerator, Pony Express, and Sierra Sidewinder continue to use the cubbies instead of ride lockers.
During the past several weeks and at the beginning of Knott's Scary Farm in mid-September, Knott's had started making exceptions and allowing its drink bottles to be placed on top of the former cubby areas.
I was at Knott's Berry Farm last night for Scary Farm and was able to use the ride locker for free both when it was open for day guests and after it had changed to the nighttime hard ticket event.
Other major theme parks in Southern California such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Disney California Adventure that require mandatory ride lockers don't charge for the first two hours, and only if users leave their belongings for longer than the free period. Knott's has moved in accordance with that policy.
@ wacky flip it’s great to see Knott’s Berry Farm updating their locker policy. Free use for the first two hours makes riding GhostRider, Silver Bullet, and HangTime more convenient and enjoyable for guests.