If you're holding bingo as part of a wider event

 You can charge admission costs for the overall entertainment. However, you can't charge participation fees, or any kind of entry fees for the bingo.

###  Scenario

 A pub landlady wants to hold an entertainment evening. She plans to offer entertainment a live band, quiz and a game of bingo. The landlady can charge an entry fee – for instance £10 – for the event as a whole and make a profit from the fee. However, people who will be playing bingo must be able to enter the pub without paying the entry fee. Some venues have a separate area where people can join in with bingo for free, but they can’t access the other entertainment, in order to do this.

 For example, the landlady can use a function room for the bingo which people will access for free (or, to pay a maximum of £5 stake per person, per game). However, guests won’t be able to access the main pub to watch the band or take part in the quiz without paying the £10 entry fee.


The rules about playing bingo as prize gaming depend on the type of premises it is played in.


 You must make sure you only offer the type of gaming you're permitted to, as follows:

* Licensed bingo premises - any type of prize gaming
* Adult Gaming Centre (AGC) - any type of prize gaming
* Family Entertainment Centre (FEC) - any type of prize gaming
* Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre (UFEC) - can  **only**  offer equal chance prize gaming (under their gaming machine permit)
* Travelling fairs - can  **only**  offer equal chance prize gaming, which must be ancillary (additional) to other amusements at the fair.

###  Time restrictions

 For the following, the game of bingo must take place over  **one**  day only:

* prize gaming permit holders
* Adult Gaming Centre (AGC)
* Family Entertainment Centre (FEC)
* travelling fairs.

>  These restrictions do not apply to licensed bingo premises.
>
>

 In Adult Gaming Centres, licensed and unlicensed family entertainment centres and travelling fairs, you must also make sure that:

* all chances to play are allocated or acquired on the premises where the gambling is taking place and on one day
* the game must be played and completed on the day the chances are allocated
* the result of the game must be made public in the premises on the day the game is played.

 You must also follow  [additional rules](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/bingo-at-a-premises-which-has-a-gambling-licence#additional-rules)  - including keeping to the maximum prize limits. These depend on the type of premises, as follows.


* base the value of the prizes on the number of people playing, or the amount raised by the game
* play the bingo virtually, or online in any way.


 You must also adhere to the following rules, including prize limits and maximum participation fees, which vary depending on the type of premises.

##  Licensed bingo premises

###  The rules

 The maximum participation fee you can charge people is  **£1**  per chance to win 1 or more prizes in a game.

 The maximum aggregate participation fees per game are  **£500**  .

 The maximum single prize limit is  **£70**  cash or in prize value (if under 18s are allowed on the premises). Or, the maximum prize limit is  **£100**  (if under 18s are not allowed on the premises).

 The maximum aggregate prize fund (cash or in prize value) per game is  **£500**  .

 Under 18s cannot take part in prize gaming at a bingo hall.

##  Adult Gaming Centre (AGC)

 For example, AGCs offer games which include slots, casino-style games and fruit machines. AGCs must have a Gambling Commission licence.

###  The rules

 The maximum participation fee is  **£1**  per chance to win 1 or more prizes in a game.

 The maximum aggregate participation fees per game are  **£500**  .

 The maximum single prize limit is  **£70**  cash or in prize value.

 The maximum aggregate prize fund (cash or in prize value) per game is  **£500**  .

 Under 18s  **cannot**  take part in this kind of gaming at an AGC.

##  Family Entertainment Centre (FEC)

 They're allowed to provide an unlimited number of certain types of gaming machine in a premise which is open to all ages. FECs must have a Gambling Commission licence.

###  The rules

 The maximum participation fee is  **£1**  per chance to win 1 or more prizes in a game.

 The maximum aggregate participation fees per game are  **£500**  .

 The maximum single prize limit is  **£70**  cash or in prize value.

 The maximum aggregate prize fund (cash or in prize value) per game is  **£500**  .

##  Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre (UFEC)

 Unlicensed FECs must have a permit from the local licensing authority.

###  The rules

 The maximum participation fee is  **£1**  per chance to win 1 or more prizes in a game.

 The maximum aggregate participation fees per game are  **£500**  .

 The maximum single prize limit is  **£70**  cash or in prize value.

 The maximum aggregate prize fund (cash or in prize value) per game is  **£500**  .

##  Travelling fairs

###  The rules

 At a travelling fair, the bingo must be an ancillary (additional) amusement at the fair. For example, a travelling fair could offer bingo as well as their main attractions of fairground rides.

 The maximum participation fee is  **£1**  per chance to win 1 or more prizes in a game.

 The maximum aggregate participation fees per game are  **£500**  .

 The maximum single prize limit is  **£70**  cash or in prize value.

 The maximum aggregate prize fund (cash or in prize value) per game is  **£500**  .

 Under 18s can take part in this kind of gaming at a travelling fair.

 Some  [category D gaming machines](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/d-gaming-machines#bingo-machines)  are designed or adapted to play bingo as a prize game.


Bingo halls and clubs that hold a bingo premises licence.


High-street outlets with gaming machines only available to over 18s.


Larger arcades which cater for a range of ages.


Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre (UFEC)

Family-friendly amusement arcades and small arcades in holiday parks and resorts.


Made up of amusements, rides and games.


You can raise money for charity by running a bingo night or bingo fundraiser, however you must follow the relevant rules.


 Anywhere which does not have a gambling premises licence. For example, this can include things like school halls, places of worship and community spaces.

 However, the gaming must take place at a  **non-commercial event**  at one of these venues.

 The event is non-commercial if all the proceeds from the event are used for fundraising and the reasonable costs of organising the event.

 This includes money from:

* entrance and participation fees
* sponsorship
* commission from traders
* any other source.

 Under 18s can take part in the following kinds of 'non-commercial gaming'.

 There are specific rules for this kind of gaming if you want to hold it at a racetrack.

 You do not need a licence for this kind of gaming. However, you must make sure you follow  **all**  of these rules.


 You must:

* make sure the game is played as an equal chance game (essentially all players must have the same chance of winning)
* tell everyone who is playing what good cause you’re raising money for in advance. For example, tell players you’re raising money for Cancer Research UK before the bingo night.

 !  **Warning  You cannot play the bingo virtually, or online in any way. You'll need a licence to run  [online bingo](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/running-online-bingo)  , otherwise you are breaking the law.**


 You can't:

* use the profits from any gaming for private gain
* use any of the proceeds from your non-commercial event for private gain.


 You can only use the profits raised from bingo to give to the good cause you’ve advertised.

 You can only deduct (take away) money from the total raised to pay for reasonable costs. For example, costs for prizes, printing bingo cards or providing refreshments.

 You cannot make money for yourself or for your business from the event.

###  What’s classed as profits

 Money raised from the bingo by stakes, entry or participation fees, minus costs from giving prizes or other reasonable costs.

###  Third parties

 If a third party is selling good or services at the bingo night, for example refreshments, this won’t count as money raised for charity and can be kept by the third party. For example, if a local baker has a stand at the bingo night selling homemade cakes, they can keep any money raised from sales on the night.


There are two ways to run bingo for fundraising

###  1. Non-commercial equal chance gaming

 You can charge players a maximum amount of £8 per person for all the games at the event per day. This includes entrance or participation fees, stakes and any other payments linked to the gaming.

 Make sure that the amount or value paid out in prizes is below £600 in total across all players, unless the event is the final in a series in which all of the players have previously taken part. In this case, a higher prize fund of up to £900 is allowed.

####  Example

 A wheelchair basketball club want to run a bingo night to raise money to buy one of their members a custom-built racing wheelchair. The organisers will let everyone taking part know the good cause the event is raising money for in advance.

 Players are charged no more than £8 in total to take part.

 All the players will physically play the game of bingo together, at the local church hall which they have hired for the evening. After the event, the organisers will deduct a small amount of money to pay for the costs of buying the bingo cards and pens. The rest of the money raised will all go to the good cause.

###  2. Non-commercial prize gaming

 You must tell everyone who is playing what good cause you’re raising money for in advance. For example, tell players you’re raising money for Cancer Research UK before the bingo night.

 There are no limits on stakes, prizes, participation fees or any other charges for this type of gaming.

 However, you must not base the value of the prizes on the number of people playing, or the amount raised by the game.

####  Example

 The PTA of a primary school want to hold a bingo night for parents, to raise money to buy kit for their athletics team. The organisers will let everyone taking part know the charity the event is raising money for in advance.

 They'll also advertise all the prizes in advance. As there are no limits on the value of the prizes, local businesses have donated prizes which include a luxury hamper and a spa day.

 All the parents will physically play the game of bingo together, in the school’s hall. After the event, the organisers deduct a small amount of money to pay for the costs of buying the bingo cards and pens. The rest of the money raised will all go to the good cause.


* [How to run bingo legally](#)
* [Residential gaming](#residential-gaming)
* [Domestic gaming](#domestic-gaming)
* [Online bingo](#running-online-bingo)
* [Bingo using a club gaming permit](#bingo-using-a-club-gaming-permit)
* [Exempt gaming in clubs and miners' welfare institutes](#exempt-gaming-in-clubs-and-institutions)
* [Exempt gaming in pubs](#exempt-gaming-in-pubs)
* [Bingo at a premises: prize gaming](#bingo-at-a-premises-which-has-a-gambling-licence)
* [Bingo for fundraising](#bingo-for-fundraising)

 [Print this guide](#)


 Bingo is a traditional form of gambling that has changed and improved rapidly in recent years. It is also the only form of gambling recognised in the  [Gambling Act 2005 (the Act) (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  that does not have a specific statutory definition. The definition of bingo in the Act states that ‘bingo’ means ‘any version of that game, irrespective of by what name it is described’.

 We have no intention of changing the position which was set out by Parliament. However, we are aware of the rapid and expanding product development within the sector, and we think it's important to clarify how we consider the boundaries between bingo and other forms of gambling.  This advice is to help bingo operators avoid creating and offering products that we consider to be casino games, lotteries, or fixed odds betting.

##  Introduction

##  The fundamental principles of bingo

##  Further guidance

##  Annex A: Banker’s games and equal chance gaming - January 2014

##  Annex B: Key characteristics of bingo - Revised, January 2014

---

 Last updated: 27 February 2023

 Show updates to this content  Formatting issues corrected.


 Since the Act came into force we have received many enquires from both the traditional bingo industry and new or potential entrants around new game formats proposed to be offered as bingo in bingo licensed premises. We have also had correspondance with The Bingo Association about how bingo is defined.  Although only the courts can provide a definitive interpretation of the law, we think it helpful to publish this advice setting out our views on the essential requirements for a gambling product recognised as bingo.

 Under  [section 291 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/291)  , as well as providing bingo, holders of bingo premises licences may also offer facilities for prize gaming  [1](#1)  as long as the gambling complies with the conditions attached to all bingo operating licences by the Gambling Act 2005 (Operating Licence Conditions) Regulations 2007 (SI 2007 No. 2257) which impose limits on both participation fees and prizes.

 Although bingo is traditonally played for a prize pool comprising players' stakes less participation fees, it may also be played for a set of prizes. These prizes are not determined by the number of people playing or the amount paid or raised by the game, therefore they are in a format which meets the definition of 'prize gaming'. This type of bingo format is often referred to as 'prize bingo', especially when played for modest prizes.

 Bingo of this type also meets the essential following requirements and may be offered in bingo licensed premises without relying on the specific permission contained in  [section 291 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/291)  . It also does not have to comply with the participation fee and prize limits laid down in the 2007 Regulations.


 Bingo is essentially a lottery played as a game.

 The description in the 1978 Royal Commission report is a good place to start when understanding the characteristics of bingo:

 ‘Bingo is a lottery played as a game. Each player receives for his stake a set of numbers which he has not chosen. These are marked off against numbers selected at random and announced by a caller, and the winner is the person who can first substantiate a claim to have marked off all those, or a particular section of those, in the set he has been given.’

 The Act distinguishes bingo from casino gaming. It provides information in  [section 65 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/65)  for separate casino and bingo operating licences and in  [section 68(3) (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/68)  , excludes bingo from the ‘other games of chance’ that a casino operating licence authorises its holder to provide.

##  We consider three fundamental principles of bingo

##  Bingo must be played as an equal chance game

##  Bingo must involve a degree of participation

##  Bingo must have a clearly defined end point


We consider three fundamental principles of bingo

* bingo must be played as an equal chance game
* bingo must involve a degree of participation
* bingo games must have a clearly defined end point.


Bingo must be played as an equal chance game

 In order for a game to be classed as ‘bingo’ it must meet the Act’s definition of ‘equal chance gaming’ (as opposed to casino gaming). This definition is set out in  [section 8 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/8)  .

 Therefore bingo must:

* not involve playing or staking against a bank
* be a game in which the chances are equally favourable. Each ticket or chance must have the same probablity of success.

 We see no objection to bingo players being able to select some, or all, of their numbers as long as there is a mechanism to ensure that each player has a unique set of numbers and the game still remains equal chance. We also consider that fixed odds bingo games are acceptable as long as they are structured to ensure there is no banker’s interest.

 We have produced a note addressing what constitutes a banker's game and how equal chance gaming differs from it. This can be found at  [Annex A](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/how-bingo-is-defined#annex-a-bankers-games-and-equal-chance-gaming)  .


Bingo must involve a degree of participation

 In order to distinguish a bingo game from a straight lottery, players must be required to participate in order to be successful.

 Participation could, and usually does, involve human interaction with the game. For example, players actively marking their cards and/or claiming they have won.

 Alternatively, technology can be used to act as the participant's mode in playing out the game which the player has initiated. This is often the case in modern bingo formats such as online, bingo machines or hand held devices. In this way participation can be made up of a combination of activity taking place both within the mechanic of the game and by the player’s own actions.

 Bingo games where the winning numbers are pre-selected are acceptable, provided that those numbers are subsequently called or displayed.


Bingo must have a clearly defined end point

A fundamental element of a game of bingo, is that it needs to end at a predetermined point or time. This end point needs to be appropriate, realistic and clearly communicated to players. The period within which a player is able to claim a prize should be factored into the timeframe of the game. Determining who has won is part of the game.


 In June 2009 the Commission published a document entitled Key characteristics of bingo, which was particularly relevant to bingo played on bingo machines. That information, as updated and revised in the light of more recent discussions with such stakeholders, is reproduced at  [Annex B](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/annex-b-key-characteristics-of-bingo-revised-january-2014)  .

 We have set separate  [technical standards](/licensees-and-businesses/page/bingo-and-casino-technical-requirements)  and equipment requirements for remote and non-remote bingo respectively to which operators must comply as a condition of their licence.


Annex A: Banker’s games and equal chance gaming - January 2014

###  A.1

 Under  [section 7(2) of the Gambling Act (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/7)  , bingo must always be ‘equal chance gaming’ in order to distinguish it from casino gaming (‘In this Act, ‘casino game’ means a game of chance which is not equal chance gaming’).

###  A.2

 [Section 8(1) (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/8)  says that gaming is ‘equal chance gaming’ if:

* it does not involve playing or staking against a bank and
* the chances are equally favourable to all participants.

###  A.3

 It is important to note that these are two separate, cumulative, requirements. If a game either involves a bank or is one in which the chances as between all those playing are unequal then it is not ‘equal chance gaming’ and cannot be offered as bingo.

###  A.4

 This note seeks to address the meaning in this context of playing or staking against a bank.

###  A.5

 A good starting point is the definition given in ‘The Law of Gambling’ edited by Smith and Monkcom which says that in essence a game involves a bank where one player plays against all the others, winning from them the stakes  [2](#2)  that they lose and paying out to them the stakes that they win.

###  A.6

 The most obvious types of banker’s game are those (such as roulette or blackjack) which contain an inbuilt advantage to whoever is the banker (a house or banker’s edge). The players’ payments are made up entirely of stakes: the operator does not need to decide what deductions to make from stakes and never makes any such deductions.

###  A.7

 The position is however complicated by the fact that, even if the bank does not have an edge, the game remains a banker’s game (and therefore cannot be played as bingo) if the operator acts as the bank in the sense at paragraph 2.

###  A.8

 As a consequence, in deciding whether or not something offered as bingo is truly equal chance gaming, regard needs to be had to the following:
 **a)**  are stakes involved at all, or merely participation fees? For instance, if the person makes a payment to participate for a prize put up by the operator, that is not a stake and the game is not a banker’s game
 **b)**  if there are stakes, are there any circumstances in which any part of those stakes may be retained by the operator, or are they all paid out in prizes, either in that game or rolled over to later ones? If the latter, there is no bank against which the person is betting; instead the operator merely holds the prize fund on behalf of the players.

###  A.9

 A game which has both a participation fee and stakes which are fully returned to the winning player(s) also remains ‘equal chance’ gaming.

###  A.10

 Thus, as long as bingo operators either return all stakes in prizes or decide themselves how much to put up as prizes and separately decide how much to charge to ensure that the payouts are likely to be covered (such that they do not make a commercial loss) the format will not be a banker’s game and will (provided chances are equally favourable to all players  [3](#3)  ) meet the definition of ‘equal chance gaming’.


Annex B: Key characteristics of bingo - Revised, January 2014

###  B.1

 Following discussions with the Bingo Association and BACTA, the Gambling Commission published in June 2009 a list of characteristics, which it considered should be present in games, whether or not played by machine, in order for them to be classed as bingo. The Commission has recently reviewed and revised, and now republishes, this list.

###  B.2

 The listed characteristics are particularly relevant to bingo machines, also known as video bingo terminals (VBTs). Machines that play bingo are exempt from limits on numbers, and stakes and prizes which apply to gaming machines. If these characteristics are not present it is likely that the Commission will view the machines as gaming machines and regulate them accordingly.

###  B.3

 Manufacturers and operators should address these characteristics when developing bingo machines for bingo clubs, adult gaming centres (AGCs) and family entertainment centres (FECs) and should also note that the Commission has concerns about potential access to these machines by children and young people (those under the age of 18). At this stage we do not intend to introduce licence conditions restricting this product to over 18s in those premises that are not age restricted, as the industry has agreed to the following characteristics. However, the options to do so remains open to the Commission should issues arise.

###  B.4

 The Commission will continue to monitor the development of bingo machines with a view to a decision, in the longer term, whether it is necessary to incorporate the characteristics in our Technical Standards, Equipment Technical Requirements and/or  [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  . In the meantime, we note that both the Bingo Association and BACTA have communicated these characteristics to their members by way of a Code of Practice.

###  B.5

 In the following list, any reference to ‘game’ or ‘games’ means a game or games of bingo.

##  Key characteristics of bingo

##  Characteristics specific to bingo machines

##  Regulations specific to bingo machines in AGCs/FECs

##  References


* Players’ payments must be divided between stakes and participation fees, although they may consist entirely of stake or entirely of participation fee.
* The way that division is made must be transparent to the player and in particular there must be a notice displayed showing participation fees in a way that makes it readily accessible to players. Any stakes must be returned to players, either in the particular game or in a subsequent one.
* Each game must be played to a single set of numbers, or symbols; drawing a second set starts a new game.
* Any game formats must clearly be presented as offering the player the opportunity to participate in a game of bingo. This includes numbers (or symbols) being marked off and the game having the appearance of a game of bingo (rather than a gaming machine).
* Any ‘added prize money’ stated to be available in a game, once offered (and unless the offer is specifically limited in time), must remain available until won in that or subsequent games ie: by way of rollover; the operator cannot claim them back. Prizes clearly advertised as being offered only for a limited period can be claimed back if they are not won. All prizes offered in each game must be transparent to the player.
* Games may operate with a single player, provided there is a meaningful opportunity for other players to participate in the same game.
* The game must comply with the requirements of the Gambling Act 2005 and must be capable of audit, where appropriate, to demonstrate legal compliance. Such audit data will demonstrate for example how players’ payments are split between stakes and participation fees and that all stakes are returned to the players, either in that game or subsequent games.


Characteristics specific to bingo machines

* The speed of game, including the time taken to join, should be similar to that of an interval game. Games must not have an auto play function.
* The machines must provide a facility for the player to extend the playing time by a minimum of 100%.
* The amount that can be staked in a set period should be no greater than on a Category C machine.


Regulations specific to bingo machines in AGCs/FECs

* the nature or size of the prize offered may not be determined by the number of persons playing; or the amount paid for or raised by the game
* bingo machines in FECs will not be made available in areas where children and young people (those under the age of 18) are permitted.


 1  [Gambling Act 2005 section 288 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/288)  – Meaning of ‘prize gaming’ Gaming is prize gaming for the purposes of this Act if neither the nature nor the size of a prize played for is determined by reference to:
 (a) The number of people playing
 (b) The amount paid for or raised by the gaming.
 2  The 2005 Act’s definition of a stake is: ‘an amount paid or risked in connection with gambling and which either
 (a) is used in calculating the amount of winnings or value of the prize that the person making the stake receives if successful
 (b) is used in calculating the total amount of winnings or value of the prizes in respect of the gambling in which the person making the stake participates.’
 3  Case law establishes that the fact that a player in bingo may purchase more than one card does not make the chances unequal as between players; such a player will have paid for two or more chances to win and not a chance to win two or more times what another player can win.


* [How bingo is defined](#)
* [Introduction](#introduction)
* [The fundamental principles of bingo](#fundamental-principles-of-bingo)
* [Further guidance](#further-guidance)
* [Annex A: Banker’s games and equal chance gaming - January 2014](#annex-a-bankers-games-and-equal-chance-gaming)
* [Annex B: Key characteristics of bingo - Revised, January 2014](#annex-b-key-characteristics-of-bingo-revised-january-2014)

 [Print this guide](#)


 These requirements cover a variety of equipment including live roulette wheels and bingo tickets. They do not cover gaming machines or remote and gambling software technical standards.

>  [LCCP: Licence condition 2.3.2](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/2-3-2-bingo-equipment-specifications)
>
>  [LCCP: Licence condition 2.3.3](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/2-3-3-casino-equipment-specifications)
>
>

 These technical requirements regulate bingo and casino equipment in two different situations:

* equipment that is used on premises in Great Britain to provide casino games and bingo games to the public
* equipment used to provide such games in gambling premises by means of a remote communication system, where the provider is regulated by the  [Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  .

---

 Last updated: 6 April 2021

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 Although the law does not prevent under 18s from entering bingo clubs, the industry generally chooses to apply a no under 18s policy.

 Under 18s are allowed in licensed commercial bingo clubs but they must not take part in playing bingo or any other forms of gambling whilst on the premises.
 If your bingo club has  [category B or C gaming machines](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-categories)  these must be separated from areas where under 18s are allowed.


Employment of children and young people in bingo premises

 If you employ children (those aged under 16) or young people (16 or 17) you should be aware that it is an offence for them to provide facilities for playing bingo or to perform any function in connection with a gaming machine, including servicing or cleaning them.

 It is an offence to employ children to perform any function on the premises when you are running a bingo game. You can, however, employ young people to perform any function not related to gambling when bingo games are taking place.

 You should have policies and procedures designed to ensure that:

* children and young people are never asked to perform the tasks previously mentioned
* all your staff, including those who are children or young people themselves, are instructed about the laws relating to access to gambling by children and young people.

 You should consider adopting the policy that children are not employed to work on bingo licensed premises when the premises are open for business and that children or young people are not asked to work in areas where there are gaming machines.

 See  [ordinary code 3.6.2](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/3-6-2-bingo)  in our Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice.


Relatives of key members of staff at bingo premises

We suggest that close relatives of members of staff in certain roles, for example callers, managers and cashiers, should not be allowed to play bingo in those clubs.


Bingo at private members’ clubs and institutes

 For private members clubs and institutes, under 18s can participate in private or non-commercial bingo provided they are members of the club or institute in which the bingo is offered. This also applies to guests of members.

 However, club membership rules often impose an age limit of 18 before a person may join, this could also apply to guests. If this is the case under 18s could not participate in any bingo offered.

###  Examples include:

* working men’s clubs
* branches of the Royal British Legion
* clubs with political affiliations.

---

 Last updated: 2 June 2021

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Information for casinos under the 1968 and 2005 Acts.


* [Types of operating licence](#generic-types-of-operating-licence)
* [Licence activities](#casino-licences-and-fees-licence-activities)
* [Fees](#generic-fees-you-need-to-pay)
* [Economic Crime Levy](#casino-the-economic-crime-levy)
* [Calculating your fees](#generic-calculating-your-fees)
* [Personal Management Licences](#generic-personal-management-licences)
* [Premises licence](#casino-licences-and-fees-premises)


* [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)](#generic-legislation-and-policies-lccp)
* [Policies and guidance](#generic-legislation-and-policies-policies-and-guidance)
* [Casino games](#casino-legislation-and-policies-policies-and-guidance)
* [Equipment technical requirements](#bingo-and-casino-technical-standards-bingo-and-casino-equipment-technical)


* [Information you’ll need for your application](#casino-getting-a-licence-information-youll-need-for-your-application)
* [Apply online](#generic-operating-licence-application)
* [Assessing your application](#generic-assessing-your-application)
* [Your licence](#generic-your-licence)


* [Compliance](#generic-compliance)
* [What you need to tell us](#generic-what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-a-licence)
* [Public Register](#generic-public-register)
* [Display of licensed status](#generic-display-of-licensed-status)
* [Making changes to your licence](#generic-making-changes-to-your-licence)
* [Surrendering your licence](#generic-surrendering-your-licence)


 The Gambling Act 2005 defines a casino as an arrangement whereby people are given an opportunity to participate in one or more casino games.

 You can read more about the legal definition of casinos in  [Part 1 section 7 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)]( https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/7)  .


 There are different types of licence that casino businesses may need to apply for, you may need more than of the following:

* [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
* [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
* [premises licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)
* [Annex A for small-scale operators](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)

 We issue operating licences and personal licences; premises licences are issued by local licensing authorities.

###  Types of operating licence

 An operating licence allows you to provide gambling activities to customers in Great Britain.

* [**Guidance**  Operating licences

 An operating licence is required to provide most gambling facilities in Great Britain.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
###  Licence activities

 You can apply to us for a licence to provide casino games in a premises (non-remote) or online (remote).

##  Activities

###  Fees

 The fees you need to pay depend on what you are applying for, and what your anticipated gross gambling yield (GGY) is.

* [**Guidance**  Fees you need to pay and when you should pay them

 Information on the fees for each licence, when these will need to be paid, and the payment methods you can use.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/fees-you-need-to-pay-and-when)
* [**Guidance**  Annual fees

 Information and guidance about annual fees for operating licence holders.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annual-fees)
* [**Guidance**  Paying fees

 Find out how to pay fees to the Gambling Commission.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)
###  Economic Crime Levy

 The Economic Crime Levy is an annual charge on entities who are supervised under the  [Money Laundering Regulations (opens new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2017/692/made)  .

* [**Guidance**  The Economic Crime Levy

 Gambling Commission's guidance on the Economic Crime Levy and how licensed casino operators can prepare for it.](/guidance/the-economic-crime-levy)
###  Calculating your fees

 Our online fees calculator can help you with understanding the amounts of your application, first annual and annual fees.

* [**Service**  Operating licence fees calculator

 Calculate application, first annual and annual fees for operating licences.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/publicfeecalc "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Personal Management Licences

 Personal Management Licences allow people to work in certain roles in a gambling business.

 Some businesses do not require personal licences to be held. Instead, you need to submit an Annex A. These are required for businesses with three employees or less.

* [**Guidance**  Personal Management Licence (PML) guide

 Information on PMLs, including the specific roles that require one, the fees you will have to pay, and how you can apply.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
###  Premises licence

 You will need a premises licence to provide casino games to players in a non-remote setting. You will need to apply to the licensing authority the premises is located, to get a premises licence.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for any premises licences.
>
>

* [**Guidance**  Casino permitted areas

 The local licensing authority areas permitted to site small and large casinos.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/casino-permitted-areas)


* [All](#all)
* [Non-remote](#Non-remote)
* [Remote](#Remote)

##  All activities

##  Non-remote licence activities

##  Remote licence activities


* [Non-remote linked licences gambling software

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)
* [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)
* [Non-remote 1968 Act casino operating licence

 If you wish to operate a casino premises which was originally granted permissions under the Gaming Act 1968, and which converted under the ‘grandfathering’ arrangements of the Gambling Act 2005, you should contact us to find out what you need to do.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-1968-act-casino-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote 2005 Act casino operating licence

 Fees for non-remote Casino 2005 Act operating licences have been based on annual gross gambling yield (GGY) rather than the type of premises licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-2005-act-casino-operating-licence)
* [Remote casino game host operating licence

 This activity allows you to provide remote casino under specific circumstances.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-game-host-operating-licence)
* [Remote casino operating licence

 This licence allows you to offer casino games to customers via a website, mobile phone, TV or other online service. This includes poker, roulette, blackjack and other casino games, as well as online slot games.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-operating-licence)


* [Non-remote linked licences gambling software

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)
* [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)
* [Non-remote 1968 Act casino operating licence

 If you wish to operate a casino premises which was originally granted permissions under the Gaming Act 1968, and which converted under the ‘grandfathering’ arrangements of the Gambling Act 2005, you should contact us to find out what you need to do.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-1968-act-casino-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote 2005 Act casino operating licence

 Fees for non-remote Casino 2005 Act operating licences have been based on annual gross gambling yield (GGY) rather than the type of premises licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-2005-act-casino-operating-licence)


* [Remote casino game host operating licence

 This activity allows you to provide remote casino under specific circumstances.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-game-host-operating-licence)
* [Remote casino operating licence

 This licence allows you to offer casino games to customers via a website, mobile phone, TV or other online service. This includes poker, roulette, blackjack and other casino games, as well as online slot games.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-casino-operating-licence)


 Gambling in Great Britain and the Gambling Commission's duties and responsibilities are detailed in the Gambling Act 2005.

 The following legislation and policies are also applicable to operating licence holders.

* [Gambling Act 2005

 Gambling Act 2005 (link opens in new window)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents "Link opens in a new tab")

###  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all operating and personal licence holders must follow.

* [**Guidance**  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all licensees must follow when running a gambling business or working in the industry.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/lccp)
###  Policies and guidance

 The following guidance and policies are also relevant for all licensees.

* [**Policy**  Licensing, compliance and enforcement under the Gambling Act 2005

 The Commission’s approach to risk underpins its licensing, compliance and enforcement functions.](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for licensing and regulation

 The Commission's statement of principles for licensing and regulation.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-licensing-and-regulation)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for determining financial penalties

 The Commission's statement of principles for determining financial penalties.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-determining-financial-penalties)
* [**Guidance**  Other policies, advice and guidance notes

 We are gradually removing PDF's from our website. Find published advice notes and guidance in PDF's we've not yet converted.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/all-policies-advice-and-guidance-notes)
* [**Guidance**  Anti-money laundering legislation

 Anti-money laundering legislation and regulatory codes of practice operators must comply with.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/anti-money-laundering-legislation)
###  Casino games

 The following guidance is specific to casino games, and is relevant to those who hold a casino licence.

* [**Guidance**  Casino games

 Gambling businesses may offer new casino games without obtaining approval from the Gambling Commission.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/casino-games)
###  Equipment technical requirements

 These technical requirements will regulate bingo and casino equipment in two different situations:

* equipment that is used on premises in Great Britain to provide casino games, and
* bingo games to the public and equipment used to provide such games in gambling premises by means of a remote communication system, where the provider is regulated by the Act.

 These Requirements cover a variety of equipment including a 'live' roulette wheel and bingo tickets. They do not cover gaming machines.

* [**Standards**  Bingo and casino technical requirements

 Bingo and casino technical requirements under section 85 and section 89 of the Gambling Act 2005.](/standards/bingo-and-casino-technical-requirements)


 You can apply online for a licence from us to provide casino activities.

 A casino application can take up to x months to process depending on the complexity of your business.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for a premises licence from the local licensing authority.
>
>

###  Information you’ll need for your application

 We will ask you to provide information about you and your business as part of your licence application.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence

 Find out which documents you will need when applying for an operating licence for your gambling business.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)
###  Apply online

 You can use our online service to apply for an operating licence.

 If you have not used the service before, you'll need an email address only you can access to be able to create an account.

>  Make sure you include all the information we ask for when you submit your application. If your application is rejected because something is missing, we will not refund your application fee.
>
>

* [**Service**  Apply for a licence to operate a gambling business

 Use this service if you want to apply for a licence to run a gambling business.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ApplicationHub/Account/Login "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Assessing your application

###  If your application is rejected

 We will send you a letter explaining which documents are missing and you'll need to reapply online.

 You must provide the missing documents, as well as the documents you included originally, and you will need to pay the application fee again.

* [**Guidance**  How we assess operating licence applications

 Find out what we consider when assessing an operating licence application.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/how-we-assess-operating-licence-applications)
###  Your licence

 If we grant you a licence to run a gambling business, you will be able to download a copy of your licence from eServices.

 You must make your licence available for inspection by request from Gambling Commission staff, licensing authority staff or other official bodies such as the police or fire service.

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")


 An important part of the Gambling Commission’s work is to ensure that licence holders are compliant. Compliance requires licence holders to understand and act in accordance with:

* the  [Gambling Act 2005](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)
* regulations (statutory instruments) made under the Gambling Act 2005
* the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP)](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp)
* any  [technical standards](#bingo-and-casino-technical-standards-bingo-and-casino-equipment-technical)  that apply to operating licences.

 Compliance activity is based on risk and the risk that each licensed activity poses to the Gambling Commission’s licensing objectives.

 The three licensing objectives are:

* keeping crime out of gambling
* ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly
* protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

###  Compliance

 Guidance and information for running a compliant gambling business. Including information on how we carry out assessments, your responsibilities under the LCCP and other gambling-related legislation.

* [**Hub**  Compliance

 How we do compliance assessments and important compliance information.](/licensees-and-businesses/compliance)
###  What you need to tell us

 You are required to tell us about certain things that happen in your business, these are dependent on the licences and activities you hold.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to tell us when you hold an operating licence

 This guidance summarises all of the types of data and information that you are required to tell us when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-an-operating-licence)
* [**Guidance**  Key events for operators

 These guides will inform you of the key events you must tell us about when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)
* [**Guidance**  Guidance to operators for age verification test purchasing (non-remote)

 This guidance explains what data we need from you about age verification test purchasing when you hold a non-remote operating licence.](/guidance/guidance-to-operators-for-age-verification-test-purchasing-non-remote)
* [**Guidance**  Regulatory returns guidance

 Guidance for information collected in the Regulatory Returns service by licensing sector.](/guidance/regulatory-returns-guidance)
* [**Guidance**  Assurance statements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements if you are required to send us an assurance statement.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/assurance-statements)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine and remote games information requirements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements for games test, games annual audit and security audit reports.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-and-remote-games-information-requirements)
###  Public Register

 We provide details of all businesses and individuals we licence on our  [Public Register](/public-register)  service.

 When you are issued a licence, we will display the details of your licence on the register.

 This includes:

* your head office address
* details of the activities you are licensed for and from when
* domain and trading names you've told us about, and
* details of any regulatory action that has been carried out.

* [**Service**  Public Register of licensees, premises and regulatory actions

 The register lets you search and download information about licensed businesses, individuals and premises. You can also find information about regulatory action we have taken against licensees.](/public-register "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Display of licensed status

 If you hold a remote licence, the gambling websites and apps you provide must show details about your licence and link to your public register licence information.

>  This is a condition of your licence under  [LCCP Condition 8 - Display of licensed status](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/1/8)  .
>
>

###  Making changes to your licence

 You can make most changes to your licence online, using eServices.

 You can:

* add or remove licence activities
* change the activity fee category up or down
* add or remove management or key people in the business
* add or remove trading names
* add or remove domain names for websites where you provide gambling.

>  Some of these  [changes require you to pay a fee](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  .
>
>

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Surrendering your licence

 If you no longer need your licence, you can surrender it.

* [**Guidance**  Surrender your operating licence

 Find out how to surrender your operating licence partially or in full.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/surrender-your-operating-licence)


Casinos are only permitted in certain areas within Great Britain.


 New casinos under the  [Gambling Act 2005 (opens in new tab)](http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  are restricted to the following areas.

 The following local licensing authority areas can site one  **small**  casino:

* Bath and North East Somerset District Council
* East Lindsey District Council
* Luton Borough Council
* Scarborough Borough Council
* Swansea City and County Council
* Torbay Borough Council
* Wigtown Divisional Licensing Board in the area of Dumfries and Galloway Council
* Wolverhampton City Council.
 The following local licensing authority areas can site one  **large**  casino:

* Great Yarmouth Borough Council
* Kingston upon Hull City Council
* Leeds City Council
* Middlesbrough Borough Council
* Milton Keynes Borough Council
* Newham London Borough Council
* Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
* Southampton City Council.
 To find out more you can contact the local licensing authorities.  [Find your local council on GOV.UK (opens in new tab).](https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council)


The regions are based on a historical division that was established under the previous regulatory framework by the Gaming Board for Great Britain working under the Gaming Act 1968.


 If you run a  [1968 Act casino](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-1968-act-casino-operating-licence)  , you should already have a premises licence from your local licensing authority.

 The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has more information about 1968 Act casinos, including the legal framework. Read the  [casinos section of the VOA's rating manual on GOV.UK (opens in new tab)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rating-manual-section-6-part-3-valuation-of-all-property-classes/section-210-casinos-and-gambling-clubs)  .

---

 Last updated: 14 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


 Casino businesses are free to offer new casino games, and new side bets or variants on existing games, without having to obtain approval from the Gambling Commission.

>  No games are prohibited at the moment but we can publish a list of games that must not be offered should we feel it is necessary.
>
>


 Player information on the rules of each type of casino game on offer and a players’ guide to the house edge (giving the odds offered) must be displayed in each casino.

 [LCCP: Social responsibility code 4.2.1](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/condition/4-2-1-casino)

---

 Last updated: 3 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


Policies for gaming machines and gambling software including technical standards, testing strategies and test houses.


* [Types of operating licence](#generic-types-of-operating-licence)
* [Licence activities](#gaming-machines-and-software-licences-and-fees-licence-activities)
* [Fees](#generic-fees-you-need-to-pay)
* [Calculating your fees](#generic-calculating-your-fees)
* [Personal Management Licences](#generic-personal-management-licences)
* [Annex A](#generic-annex-a-declaration)


* [Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)](#generic-legislation-and-policies-lccp)
* [Policies and guidance](#generic-legislation-and-policies-policies-and-guidance)
* [Technical standards](#generic-technical-standards)


* [Information you'll need for your application](#gaming-machines-and-software-getting-a-licence-information-youll-need-for)
* [Apply online](#generic-operating-licence-application)
* [Assessing your application](#generic-assessing-your-application)
* [Your licence](#generic-your-licence)


* [Compliance](#generic-compliance)
* [What you need to tell us](#generic-what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-a-licence)
* [Public Register](#generic-public-register)
* [Making changes to your licence](#generic-making-changes-to-your-licence)
* [Surrendering your licence](#generic-surrendering-your-licence)


 Gaming machines and software is an in-depth sector. The wide definition of gaming machines is a machine that is designed or adapted for use by people to gamble (whether or not it can be used for other purposes).

 You can read more about the legal definition of gaming machines and software in  [Section 235 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/notes/division/5/3/10/30/1 )  .


 Guidance for gaming machines and software.

* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine categories

 A gaming machine is defined by the Gambling Act 2005 as a machine that is designed or adapted for use by individuals to gamble.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-categories)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine 'In Game' gambles

 Guidance on what constitutes 'in game' gambles and the regulations around them.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/guidance-note-on-gaming-machine-in-game-gambles)
* [**Guidance**  Lottery ticket vending machines

 Information on lottery vending machines and the regulations around them.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/lottery-ticket-vending-machines)
* [**Guidance**  When a machine is available for use

 Information on when we consider a game machine to be available to use and common questions around this.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/when-a-machine-is-available-for-use)
* [**Guidance**  Non-complex cat D gaming machines (crane grabs)

 Certain types of machine currently operated as skill with prize (SWP).](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/non-complex-cat-d-gaming-machines-crane-grabs)


 There are different types of licence that gaming machine and or software businesses may need to apply for, you may need more than of the following:

* [operating licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
* [Personal Management Licence](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
* [premises licence](/licensees-and-businesses/page/premises-licence)
* [Annex A for small-scale operators](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)

 We issue operating licences and personal licences; premises licences are issued by local licensing authorities.

###  Types of operating licence

 An operating licence allows you to provide gambling activities to customers in Great Britain.

* [**Guidance**  Operating licences

 An operating licence is required to provide most gambling facilities in Great Britain.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/operating-licences)
###  Licence activities

 You can apply to us for a licence to provide gaming machines and or software in a premises (non-remote) or online (remote).

##  Activities

###  Fees

 The fees you need to pay depend on what you are applying for, and what your anticipated gross gambling yield (GGY) is.

* [**Guidance**  Fees you need to pay and when you should pay them

 Information on the fees for each licence, when these will need to be paid, and the payment methods you can use.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/fees-you-need-to-pay-and-when)
* [**Guidance**  Annual fees

 Information and guidance about annual fees for operating licence holders.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annual-fees)
* [**Guidance**  Paying fees

 Find out how to pay fees to the Gambling Commission.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/paying-fees)
###  Calculating your fees

 Our online fees calculator can help you with understanding the amounts of your application, first annual and annual fees.

* [**Service**  Operating licence fees calculator

 Calculate application, first annual and annual fees for operating licences.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/publicfeecalc "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Personal Management Licences

 Personal Management Licences allow people to work in certain roles in a gambling business.

 Some businesses do not require personal licences to be held. Instead, you need to submit an Annex A. These are required for businesses with three employees or less.

* [**Guidance**  Personal Management Licence (PML) guide

 Information on PMLs, including the specific roles that require one, the fees you will have to pay, and how you can apply.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/personal-management-licence)
###  Annex A

 If your business qualifies as a  [small-scale operator](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/small-scale-operator)  , you can submit an Annex A instead of applying for a Personal Management Licence.

* [**Guidance**  Annex A guide

 Information about Annex As and when they are required.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/annex-a-declaration)


* [All](#all)
* [Non-remote](#Non-remote)
* [Remote](#Remote)

##  All activities

##  Non-remote licence activities

##  Remote licence activities


* [Non-remote linked licences gambling software

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)
* [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)
* [Non-remote gambling software licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software through means of non-remote communication, such as by uploading to CD or memory stick.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gambling-software-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical - full licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair a gaming machine or a part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt software for a gaming machine; to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence

 This licence allows you to supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair (but not manufacture) a gaming machine or part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting standard operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide betting facilities at betting shops and at tracks and or courses.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-standard-operating-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical - full licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair a gaming machine or a part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt software for a gaming machine; to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence

 This licence allows you to to supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair (but not manufacture) a gaming machine or part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)


* [Non-remote linked licences gambling software

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-linked-licences-gambling-software)
* [Remote linked licences gaming machine technical

 If you already hold, or are applying for, a full operating licence you may also, in certain circumstances, apply for a linked licence.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-linked-licences-gaming-machine-technical)
* [Non-remote gambling software licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software through means of non-remote communication, such as by uploading to CD or memory stick.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gambling-software-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical - full licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair a gaming machine or a part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt software for a gaming machine; to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)
* [Non-remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence

 This licence allows you to supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair (but not manufacture) a gaming machine or part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)
* [Non-remote general betting standard operating licence

 This licence allows you to provide betting facilities at betting shops and at tracks and or courses.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/non-remote-general-betting-standard-operating-licence)


* [Remote gaming machine technical - full licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair a gaming machine or a part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-full-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – software operating licence

 This licence allows you to manufacture, supply, install or adapt software for a gaming machine; to manufacture, supply, install or adapt gambling software.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-software-operating-licence)
* [Remote gaming machine technical – supplier operating licence

 This licence allows you to to supply, install, adapt, maintain or repair (but not manufacture) a gaming machine or part of a gaming machine.

 Further details and fees](/licensees-and-businesses/licences-and-fees/remote-gaming-machine-technical-supplier-licence)


 Gambling in Great Britain and the Gambling Commission's duties and responsibilities are detailed in the Gambling Act 2005.

 The following legislation and policies are also applicable to operating licence holders.

* [Gambling Act 2005

 Gambling Act 2005 (link opens in new window)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents "Link opens in a new tab")

###  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all operating and personal licence holders must follow.

* [**Guidance**  Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)

 The LCCP outlines the requirements that all licensees must follow when running a gambling business or working in the industry.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/lccp)
###  Policies and guidance

 The following guidance and policies are also relevant for all licensees.

* [**Policy**  Licensing, compliance and enforcement under the Gambling Act 2005

 The Commission’s approach to risk underpins its licensing, compliance and enforcement functions.](/policy/licensing-compliance-and-enforcement-under-the-gambling-act-2005)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for licensing and regulation

 The Commission's statement of principles for licensing and regulation.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-licensing-and-regulation)
* [**Policy**  Statement of principles for determining financial penalties

 The Commission's statement of principles for determining financial penalties.](/policy/statement-of-principles-for-determining-financial-penalties)
* [**Guidance**  Other policies, advice and guidance notes

 We are gradually removing PDF's from our website. Find published advice notes and guidance in PDF's we've not yet converted.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/all-policies-advice-and-guidance-notes)
* [**Guidance**  Anti-money laundering legislation

 Anti-money laundering legislation and regulatory codes of practice operators must comply with.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/anti-money-laundering-legislation)
###  Technical standards

 All licence holders must comply with our technical standards and requirements. However, these standards should not be used as a measure of reliability, quality or security.

 These standards and requirements permit equivalence between different types of technology and do not specify proprietary products or technologies.

 Testing regimes for these standards will permit equivalent international standards (ISO).

* [**Guidance**  Remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS) guidance

 Gambling software and remote operating licence holders (including ancillary remote betting) are required to comply with our remote technical standards (RTS).](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)
* [**Standards**  Remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS)

 Remote gambling and software technical standards under section 89 and section 97 of the Gambling Act 2005.](/standards/remote-gambling-and-software-technical-standards)
* [**Strategy**  Testing strategy for compliance with remote gambling and software technical standards

 Requirements for the timing and procedures for the testing of remote gambling products.](/strategy/testing-strategy-for-compliance-with-remote-gambling-and-software-technical)
* [**Guidance**  Test houses

 All gambling products must have been tested by an approved test house before they are released to the market.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/test-houses)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine and remote games information requirements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements for games test, games annual audit and security audit reports.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-and-remote-games-information-requirements)
* [**Guidance**  Technical standards: security requirements

 Our testing strategy requires a third party annual security audit against particular sections of ISO/IEC 27001:2013.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/technical-standards-security-requirements)
* [**Guidance**  Security audit advice

 For holders of all remote gambling operator licences including specified remote lottery licences.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/security-audit-advice)


 You can apply online for a licence from us to provide gaming machine and or software activities.

 An application for gaming machines and or software can take up to x months to process depending on the complexity of your business.

>  You will need to apply for an operating licence, before you apply for a premises licence from the local licensing authority.
>
>

###  Information you'll need for your application

 We will ask you to provide information about you and your business as part of your licence application.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to send us when you apply for an operating licence

 Find out which documents you will need when applying for an operating licence for your gambling business.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-send-us-when-you-apply-for-an-operating-licence)
###  Apply online

 You can use our online service to apply for an operating licence.

 If you have not used the service before, you'll need an email address only you can access to be able to create an account.

>  Make sure you include all the information we ask for when you submit your application. If your application is rejected because something is missing, we will not refund your application fee.
>
>

* [**Service**  Apply for a licence to operate a gambling business

 Use this service if you want to apply for a licence to run a gambling business.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/ApplicationHub/Account/Login "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Assessing your application

###  If your application is rejected

 We will send you a letter explaining which documents are missing and you'll need to reapply online.

 You must provide the missing documents, as well as the documents you included originally, and you will need to pay the application fee again.

* [**Guidance**  How we assess operating licence applications

 Find out what we consider when assessing an operating licence application.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/how-we-assess-operating-licence-applications)
###  Your licence

 If we grant you a licence to run a gambling business, you will be able to download a copy of your licence from eServices.

 You must make your licence available for inspection by request from Gambling Commission staff, licensing authority staff or other official bodies such as the police or fire service.

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")


 An important part of the Gambling Commission’s work is to ensure that licence holders are compliant. Compliance requires licence holders to understand and act in accordance with:

* the  [Gambling Act 2005](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)
* regulations (statutory instruments) made under the Gambling Act 2005
* the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP)](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp)
* any  [technical standards](#generic-technical-standards)  that apply to operating licences.

 Compliance activity is based on risk and the risk that each licensed activity poses to the Gambling Commission’s licensing objectives.

 The three licensing objectives are:

* keeping crime out of gambling
* ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and openly
* protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

###  Compliance

 Guidance and information for running a compliant gambling business. Including information on how we carry out assessments, your responsibilities under the LCCP and other gambling-related legislation.

* [**Hub**  Compliance

 How we do compliance assessments and important compliance information.](/licensees-and-businesses/compliance)
###  What you need to tell us

 You are required to tell us about certain things that happen in your business, these are dependent on the licences and activities you hold.

* [**Guidance**  What you need to tell us when you hold an operating licence

 This guidance summarises all of the types of data and information that you are required to tell us when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/what-you-need-to-tell-us-when-you-hold-an-operating-licence)
* [**Guidance**  Key events for operators

 These guides will inform you of the key events you must tell us about when you hold an operating licence.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/key-events-for-operators)
* [**Guidance**  Guidance to operators for age verification test purchasing (non-remote)

 This guidance explains what data we need from you about age verification test purchasing when you hold a non-remote operating licence.](/guidance/guidance-to-operators-for-age-verification-test-purchasing-non-remote)
* [**Guidance**  Regulatory returns guidance

 Guidance for information collected in the Regulatory Returns service by licensing sector.](/guidance/regulatory-returns-guidance)
* [**Guidance**  Assurance statements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements if you are required to send us an assurance statement.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/assurance-statements)
* [**Guidance**  Gaming machine and remote games information requirements

 This guidance explains our data and information requirements for games test, games annual audit and security audit reports.](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-and-remote-games-information-requirements)
###  Public Register

 We provide details of all businesses and individuals we licence on our  [Public Register](/public-register)  service.

 When you are issued a licence, we will display the details of your licence on the register.

 This includes:

* your head office address
* details of the activities you are licensed for and from when
* domain and trading names you've told us about, and
* details of any regulatory action that has been carried out.

* [**Service**  Public Register of licensees, premises and regulatory actions

 The register lets you search and download information about licensed businesses, individuals and premises. You can also find information about regulatory action we have taken against licensees.](/public-register "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Making changes to your licence

 You can make most changes to your licence online, using eServices.

 You can:

* add or remove licence activities
* change the activity fee category up or down
* add or remove management or key people in the business
* add or remove trading names
* add or remove domain names for websites where you provide gambling.

>  Some of these  [changes require you to pay a fee](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/make-changes-to-your-operating-licence)  .
>
>

* [**Service**  eServices for operating licence holders

 eServices allows operating licence holders to make changes to their licence, submit regulatory returns and other notifications to the Gambling Commission.](https://secure.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/EServices/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2feservices "Link opens in a new tab")
###  Surrendering your licence

 If you no longer need your licence, you can surrender it.

* [**Guidance**  Surrender your operating licence

 Find out how to surrender your operating licence partially or in full.](/licensees-and-businesses/page/surrender-your-operating-licence)


##  Regulation 2(2) in both the Gaming Machine (Circumstances of Use) Regulations 2007 and the Categories of Gaming Machine Regulations 2007 effectively states:

##  Section 7.22 of the Explanatory Memorandum to the Circumstances of Use Regulations clarifies that:

 Note that regulation gives an exemption for Penny Falls machines (Pushers)  The regulation prevents the development of parallel games but may also be applied to games which permit secondary or subsequent gambles with funds won during earlier parts of the game. However, it must always be remembered that ultimately only a court can provide a definitive interpretation of the law.

 In response to calls for clarification, the Commission is providing this guidance with a considered view of how this regulation should be appropriately applied in the absence of relevant case law. But this clarification does not dilute the responsibility of manufacturers, suppliers and operators to obtain the necessary legal advice to ensure their products do not breach the legislation.

 Some types of in-game gambles potentially covered by this restriction were in place prior to the Gambling Act 2005 coming into force and many still exist today; other versions of secondary or subsequent gambles have been more recently developed and push the boundaries to a point where the Commission is of the view that the statutory maximum stake is being exceeded in such games.

 We are concerned about ensuring that the statutory maximum stake level is not circumvented on gaming machines but are also conscious that we do not want to stifle legitimate innovation or player enjoyment. Whilst it cannot be prescriptive, this guidance will, it is hoped, make clear to manufacturers and operators where we consider the boundaries lie in game design around the subject of in-game gambles. It is offered in order to help (gaming machine) game designers understand the acceptable boundaries of further gambling a win, which is also referred to as an ‘in-game’ or a ‘secondary’ gamble.

 Apart from providing clarification as to the scope of regulation 2(2) as previously stated, nothing in this guidance shall be taken to, in any way, replace or over-rule existing Regulations and Technical Standards.

 Following this guidance does not guarantee compliance with the Legislation or Gaming Machine Technical Standards (GMTS).

 This guidance could be developed further and/or could possibly be included within the Gaming Machine Technical Standards (GMTS); the need for this (or not) will be determined by the response to this guidance over time.

##  Terms used (for the purpose of this guidance only)

##  Guidance

##  Citations and references

---

 Last updated: 8 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


Regulation 2(2) in both the Gaming Machine (Circumstances of Use) Regulations 2007 and the Categories of Gaming Machine Regulations 2007 effectively states:

'a person is to be treated as using a gaming machine once, even where he uses the machine to gamble more than once, if the payment for each gamble is made before he is able to know the result of any of them'.


Section 7.22 of the Explanatory Memorandum to the Circumstances of Use Regulations clarifies that:

This regulation will prevent the development of parallel games, which enables a player to start a “game” once and the machine makes a number of determinations at the same time. Such machines seek to circumvent the maximum stake and prize limits, by enabling a player to stake, simultaneously, multiples of the maximum stake permitted for its category of machine. The Department is clear that such practices should be outlawed.


Terms used (for the purpose of this guidance only)

Primary gamble:  The first gamble (or gambles) that occur when the game begins. The primary gamble(s) end at the point the player is first able to collect any winnings from the game. (Primary gambles are often called the base game).  Secondary gamble:  Any gamble that occurs following the primary gamble. Secondary gambles only risk funds won during the primary gamble, or previous secondary gambles within the same game – if new funds are risked then it becomes a new game with a new primary gamble and is not a secondary gamble. (Secondary gambles are often called the feature game).  Game:  The entirety of the gambles that occur, encompassing the primary gamble(s) and all secondary gambles. (The base game plus any feature game). A game on a gaming machine may also be considered as: “A defined sequence of activities, during which one or more gambles may be offered or undertaken at various points, until a definitive endpoint  [1](#1)  is reached, whereupon the player collects any prize won.”  Casino Banker’s Game  [2](#2)  :  A gaming machine representation of a recognised table based casino banker’s game. This includes a game calling itself something else but using essentially the same game mechanic as a recognised table based casino banker’s game. Poker  [3](#3)  , as played on a gaming machine, is typically not a casino banker’s game.


###  Primary gamble:

* If a game consists of only a primary gamble, then there are no further restrictions in this guidance.
* The primary gamble, prior to any secondary gamble, shall not involve a casino banker’s game.

###  Secondary gamble(s):

* If each secondary gamble within a game does not exceed the statutory maximum stake (for the category of machine concerned), then there are no further restrictions in this guidance – subject to the bullet points below.
* If multiple secondary gambles occur without player involvement between each gamble, any wins awarded shall be paid to the win meter (or players’ bank) as they occur.
* Secondary gambles involving a casino banker’s game shall be limited to one iteration. They shall cease when the normal game endpoint  [4](#4)  is reached.


 1  Note that recognised table based casino banker’s games (such as roulette) have definitive endpoints.
 2  Used in connection with a gaming machine in this guidance only.
 3  Some versions of poker played in casinos are casino banker’s games. If such a version of poker is presented on a gaming machine, then it shall be considered to be a casino banker’s game.
 4  The ‘normal game endpoint’ shall be considered to be the same as the endpoint found on the recognised table based version of the casino banker’s game being played.


* [Gaming machine 'In Game' gambles](#)
* [Terms used (for the purpose of this guidance only)](#terms-used-for-the-purpose-of-this-guidance-only)
* [Guidance](#guidance)

 [Print this guide](#)


 Lottery ticket vending machines usually dispense a scratchcard or pull-tab lottery ticket following the insertion of the cost of the ticket into the machine.

 The machines only dispense a pre-determined ticket - there must be no element of skill or game play required by the purchaser and the machine must not determine the outcome of the lottery or display the result within an interval of less than one hour if it is to avoid being classed as a gaming machine and subject to the requirements for  [gaming machines](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/gaming-machine-categories)  .

##  Lottery ticket vending machines and B3A gaming machines

##  Manufacture or supply of lottery ticket vending machines

##  How lottery ticket vending machines can be used

##  For Gambling Commission licensed society lotteries

##  For local authority registered society lotteries

##  Location of lottery ticket vending machines

##  Files


Lottery ticket vending machines and B3A gaming machines

 Lottery ticket vending machines should not be confused with  [B3A gaming machines](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/page/b3a-gaming-machines)  that offer lottery style games but are classed as gaming machines and subject to separate and specific requirements under  [section 235 of the Gambling Act (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/235)  .

 See our advice,  [Comparing lottery ticket dispensers and category B3A gaming machines quick guide](#2FuQ1QOrH6kBUQ0TJja2k8)  which provides further advice on the difference between lottery ticket vending machines and B3A gaming machines.


Manufacture or supply of lottery ticket vending machines

 No specific permission is required to manufacture or supply lottery ticket vending machines but those who supply them can only supply the machine to a licensed or registered society lottery,  [External Lottery Manager (ELM)](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/external-lottery-managers-elms-lotteries)  or the promoter of a private lottery.

 The suppliers of such machines must be careful to ensure that the services they offer do not constitute ‘promoting a lottery’ (see  [Section 252 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/252#:~:text=252Promoting%20a%20lottery&text=(1)For%20the%20purposes%20of,the%20arrangements%20for%20a%20lottery.&text=(k)uses%20premises%20for%20the,the%20administration%20of%20a%20lottery.))  . If the machine supplier is promoting a lottery they will need to be licensed by the Gambling Commission as an External Lottery Manager.


How lottery ticket vending machines can be used

 Lottery ticket vending machines can only be used to dispense society lottery tickets (Gambling Commission licensed and local authority registered) and tickets in private lotteries such as private society lotteries in private members clubs.

 Lottery ticket vending machines are subject to the same restrictions and requirements as any lottery, dependent of course, on what type of lottery is being promoted and therefore dispensed from the machine(s).

 If a lottery ticket vending machine is dispensing a local authority registered society lottery, or a Gambling Commission licensed society lottery or a private lottery (eg private society lottery), it will be the relevant regulatory requirements that apply and any restrictions those lotteries place on where and how tickets can be sold.


For Gambling Commission licensed society lotteries

 Licensed society lotteries can sell tickets anywhere apart from on a street (for example, any bridge, road, lane, footway), which means they can be sold via lottery ticket vending machines.  If lottery ticket vending machines are being used to dispense and sell licensed society lottery tickets the society and external lottery manager (ELM) (if one is used) maintain overall responsibility for the lottery. They must ensure the lottery adheres to the  [Licence conditions and codes of practice (LCCP)](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  attached to the society or ELM licence which includes having the required age verification, self-exclusion, problem gambling and social responsibility policies and procedures in place as well as adherence to any other relevant regulations.

 It is also the responsibility of the society or ELM to ensure that lottery ticket vending machines are sited in a place either with supervision or oversight so that only those 16 or over can play and the machines have adequate age signage.

 Lottery tickets being dispensed must meet the relevant ticket requirements set out in the LCCP.

 Societies licensed with the Commission must also take account of our guidance on providing information to lottery players when dispensing and selling lottery tickets. See our guidance  [Information to lottery players: proceeds and prizes](/licensees-and-businesses/guide/information-to-lottery-players-proceeds-and-prizes)  for more information.


For local authority registered society lotteries

 Local authority registered society lotteries can also sell lottery tickets via lottery ticket vending machines. If the lottery ticket vending machine is selling tickets on behalf of an LA registered society they must adhere to  [Schedule 11, Part 4 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/schedule/11)  .

 If lottery ticket vending machines are being used to dispense local authority registered society lottery tickets the society maintains overall responsibility for the lottery which includes ensuring it adheres to all the relevant legislative requirements attached to an LA registered society lottery registration and any other relevant regulations.

>  It is also the responsibility of the society to ensure that lottery ticket vending machines are sited in a place either with supervision or oversight so that only those 16 or over can play and the machines have adequate age signage.
>
>

 Lottery tickets being dispensed must meet the relevant ticket requirements set out in Schedule 11, Part 4 of the Gambling Act 2005.


Location of lottery ticket vending machines

 Lottery ticket vending machines that are selling Gambling Commission licensed or local authority registered society lottery tickets can be sited in a number of places, such as:

##  Pubs

 Alcohol-licensed premises such as pubs can site lottery ticket vending machines but they must be sited on behalf of, or by, a licensed or registered society lottery and must adhere to the relevant sections of the  [Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  ,  [LCCP](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  and social responsibility measures (eg age verification) as previously set out.

 It is important to remember that the pub is acting as a retailer and the society remains responsible for the lottery. The society must ensure the publican has received the required age verification, self-exclusion, problem gambling and social responsibility training before siting the machines. It is also imperative that there are policies and procedures in place which have been agreed between the society and publican for cash handling and the reconciliation and banking of ticket sales.

##  Retailers

 Shops can also site lottery ticket vending machines but they must also be on behalf of, or by, a licensed or registered society lottery and again it must adhere to the relevant sections of  [the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  ,  [LCCP](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  and social responsibility measures (eg age verification).  The shop is acting as a retailer and the society remains responsible for the lottery. The society must ensure the retailer has received the required age verification, self-exclusion, problem gambling and social responsibility training before siting the machines. It is also imperative that there are policies and procedures in place which have been agreed between the society and retailer for cash handling and the reconciliation and banking of ticket sales.

##  Gambling-licensed premises

 Society lottery tickets can be sold on gambling licensed premises (in England and Wales and Scotland) via lottery ticket vending machines but again they must be sited on behalf of, or by, a licensed or registered society lottery and it must adhere to the relevant sections of  [the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/contents)  ,  [LCCP](/licensees-and-businesses/lccp/online)  and social responsibility measures (eg age verification).  [Mandatory and default conditions for England and Wales (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2007/1409/regulation/3/made)  prohibit the sale of tickets in a private lottery or customer lottery on any gambling licensed premises.  [Conditions on gambling licensed premises in Scotland (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ssi/2007/266/regulation/3/made)  allow for the sale of tickets in customer lotteries on any gambling licensed premises but not private lotteries.

 The gambling licensed premises is acting as a retailer and the society remains responsible for the lottery. The society must ensure the premises owner and employees have received the required age verification, self-exclusion, problem gambling and social responsibility training before siting the machines. It is also imperative that there are policies and procedures in place which have been agreed between the society and premises for cash handling and the reconciliation and banking of ticket sales.

##  Other places lottery ticket vending machines can be used


Other places lottery ticket vending machines can be used

 Lottery ticket vending machines can also be used to dispense tickets in private lotteries such as private society lotteries.

###  Private members clubs

 Lottery ticket vending machines can be sited and used in private members’ clubs in two ways.

 Firstly the lottery ticket vending machine can be operated as a private society lottery and the lottery in question would need to adhere to  [Part 2 of Schedule 11 of the Gambling Act 2005](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/schedule/11)  . In this scenario the club would not need a licence from the Gambling Commission or the local authority to site the machine or operate the lottery, neither does the machine supplier need a licence. The ticket requirements for a private society lottery are set out at Part 2 of Schedule 11 of the Gambling Act 2005.

 No age restrictions apply to this type of lottery.  Private societies are permitted to run private society lotteries to raise proceeds for the purposes for which the society is conducted, or to raise funds to support another charity or good cause.

 The second way a lottery ticket vending machine can be operated in a private member’s club is by dispensing Gambling Commission licensed or local authority registered society lottery tickets. There are specific regulatory requirements which must be adhered to when selling society lottery tickets (see above).

 In this scenario no specific permission is required to manufacture or supply lottery ticket vending machines but those who supply them can only supply the machine to a society lottery or External Lottery Manager (ELM).

 Suppliers must be careful to ensure that the services they offer do not constitute ‘promoting a lottery’ (see  [section 252 of the Gambling Act 2005 (opens in a new tab)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/19/section/252#:~:text=252Promoting%20a%20lottery&text=(1)For%20the%20purposes%20of,the%20arrangements%20for%20a%20lottery.&text=(k)uses%20premises%20for%20the,the%20administration%20of%20a%20lottery.)  . If the machine supplier is promoting a lottery they will need to be licensed by the Gambling Commission as an External Lottery Manager.


 Some files may not be accessible for users of assistive technology. If you require a copy of the file in an accessible format  [contact us](/forms/formatrequest)  with details of what you require. It would help us to know what technology you use and the required format.

 **PDF Files**  Some PDF files cannot be displayed in a browser, you will see a message saying 'Please wait...'. If you see this message, you will need to download the file and open it in  [Adobe Acrobat Reader (opens in a new tab)](https://get.adobe.com/reader/)  .

 [Organising small lotteries

 application/pdf PDF 244.5 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/5p756U3GQ8tAWNATMCsjXv/2d551ab64eef38357ad37324ffa8eb49/Organising-small-lotteries.pdf) [Comparing lottery ticket dispensers and category b3a gaming machines quick guide

 application/pdf PDF 236.6 kB](//assets.ctfassets.net/j16ev64qyf6l/2FuQ1QOrH6kBUQ0TJja2k8/b67d3c3e7fb101501346c1064a79b243/Comparing-lottery-ticket-dispensers-and-category-b3a-gaming-machines-quick-guide.pdf)

---

 Last updated: 8 June 2021

 Show updates to this content  No changes to show.


* [Lottery ticket vending machines](#)
* [Lottery ticket vending machines and B3A gaming machines](#the-difference-between-lottery-ticket-vending-machines-and-b3a-gaming)
* [Manufacture or supply of lottery ticket vending machines](#manufacture-or-supply-of-lottery-ticket-vending-machines)
* [How lottery ticket vending machines can be used](#how-lottery-ticket-vending-machines-can-be-used)
* [For Gambling Commission licensed society lotteries](#for-gambling-commission-licensed-society-lotteries)
* [For local authority registered society lotteries](#for-local-authority-registered-society-lotteries)
* [Location of lottery ticket vending machines](#location-of-lottery-ticket-vending-machines)

 [Print this guide](#)


>  This updated guidance was originally published in October 2019.
>
>

 We consider a gaming machine is ‘available for use’ if a player can take steps to play it without needing the assistance of the operator.

 More than the permitted number of machines may be physically located on a premises. Howwever, it is the licensees responsibility to make sure that no more than the permitted number are ‘available for use’ at any one time.

##  Available for use in AGC or bingo premises under the 20% regulations

##  Machines providing more than one category

##  Machines that are networked

##  Electronic Bingo Terminals (EBTs)

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 Last updated: 11 June 2021

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