Keywords Home Departments Boards & Committees FAQs For Business Find It Fast You are here Home ›› Departments ›› Town Clerk Raffle & Bazaar Permits Raffle & Bazaar Permits Raffle & Bazaar Permit Application Form Exception in Law Although Massachusetts General Laws prohibit most forms of gambling in the Commonwealth, an exception is made under Chapter 271, Section 7A for certain non-profit organizations that wish to raise funds through raffles and bazaars. (The term "bazaar" is used to refer to "casino night" type events.) Fee & Related Items Organizations meeting the criteria outlined in the law may apply for a permit from the Town Clerk where the raffle drawing or casino night will take place. The permit application fee in Tewksbury is $10. A permit will be issued only after approval of the application by the Town Clerk and the Chief of Police. The permit is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance. An unlimited number of raffles, but only 3 bazaars (casino nights) may be held within the duration of the permit. Gross proceeds of raffles and bazaars are subject to a 5% Massachusetts excise tax on wagering. Proceeds must be reported to the Lottery Commission and taxes paid within 10 days after each event. The Lottery Commission will send the appropriate tax reporting forms to the sponsoring organization. Additional forms can be obtained by calling the Lottery Commission at 781-849-5555. Annual Report At the end of the permit's validity, and before a renewal permit can be issued, an Annual Report must be filed with the Town Clerk. The report must list all income and expenses associated with raffles and bazaars for the duration of the permit, as well as the names and addresses of participants who won prizes valued at $250 or more. The report must be signed by the members of the organization listed on the original permit application, as well as the organization's accountant. Regulations Organizations holding raffle/bazaar permits are responsible for adhering to the regulations outlined in Chapter 271, Section 7A. There are additional regulations in 940 CMR 12 for raffles in which the value of prizes exceeds $10,000 or in which the ticket price exceeds $10. Bazaars (casino nights) are also governed by 940 CMR 13. Questions about these regulations can be directed to the Town Clerk's Office at 978-640-4355, or the Lottery Commission at 781-849-5555. Burial Permits Business Certificates (DBA) Calendar of Known 2022 Elections and Town Meetings Campaign Finance Reports Census Information Dog License Information Election & Voter Registration Fee Schedule Helpful Town and State Telephone Numbers Hunting And Fishing Licenses Marriage Licenses Open Meeting Law Parking Clerk Pothole, Mailbox & Property Damage Claims Public Records Raffle & Bazaar Permits State Ethics and Conflict of Interest Town Meeting Information Town of Tewksbury Reference Guide for Boards, Committees & Commissions Vital Records - Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates Contact Info Phone: (978) 640-4355 Fax: (978) 851-8610 Address: Town Hall 1009 Main Street, 1st Floor Tewksbury, MA 01876 United States See map: Google Maps Town of Tewksbury, 1009 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876 Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 4:30pm Website Disclaimer Government Websites by CivicPlus ® Login