Dunfermline have warned a section of their support to stop standing at games or risk costing the club money.
The Pars have set themselves a goal of having police-free matches at East End Park as soon as possible.
Hosting fixtures with only stewards in place would be a money-spinner for the club, with the annual spend on policing at the ground well into five figures.
The persistent flouting of the rules regarding standing by fans in section L of the North Stand is, however, jeopardising hopes of that happening.
Now a call has gone out to spectators to remain seated or risk the Pars being fined or even the closure of that part of the stadium.
A club statement read: “Dunfermline Athletic FC and Fife police have continued to look into the possibility of police-free games at East End Park before the end of this season.
“Given that DAFC pay £10,000s per year…for the policing of matches, the possibility of police-free matches provides a massive avenue for saving money.
“Regrettably, a number of fans are continuing to stand in section L of the North Stand and as a result are failing to follow DAFC, SPL and SFA regulations, which require all supporters to remain seated apart from goal celebrations etc.
“This standing removes the possibility of police-free matches and, as a result, continues to cost DAFC thousands.
“The club would like to reiterate to these particular supporters that the club is in danger of being fined by the football authorities and we could also face difficulty in complying with our future safety certificate requirements.
“Furthermore, the club is continuing to receive ongoing complaints from other supporters where views are restricted by this particular section of fans who continue to stand for prolonged periods of time.”
The statement finishes with a warning that “unfortunately, if there is no marked improvement by supporters…then we will have no other option than to close this particular section.”
Dunfermline have given spectators who wish to transfer out of this section before Saturday’s game against Hearts the opportunity to do so by contacting 01383 745909 or emailing tickets@dafc.co.uk.