Gambling or gaming permits and notifications

Prize gaming

Prize gaming is where the organiser puts up the prizes in advance. This is different from gaming where the stakes of the participants make up the winnings.

You'll need a permit if you want to allow low-level gaming for small participation fees and modest prizes.

The nature and size of the prize available in prize gaming is not determined by either the:

• number of people playing
• amount paid for or raised by the gaming

An example of prize gaming is bingo. 

Premises that do not need a permit

You do not need a prize gaming permit if you're the holder of:

• an adult gaming centre premises licence
• a family entertainment centre premises licence (FEC)
• an unlicensed family entertainment centre machine permit (UFEC)

You also do not need a separate prize gaming permit if your premises are already authorised to offer prize gaming, subject to certain conditions, such as:

• travelling fairs
• bingo halls

Permits cannot be issued to vehicles or vessels.

For prices, view our licensing fees and charges.

Apply 

You can apply for a permit if you're:

• the occupier or proposed occupier of the premises and have a premises licence
• 18 years or older

Before you apply you will need to: 

• have appropriate supporting documents ready
• have the correct fee ready to pay

Please contact our Licensing team for an application form at [email protected].

Payment

Once you have completed your application form please pay the application fee. Your application will only be processed once we are in receipt of your application and payment.

Next steps 

We may grant or refuse an application for a permit having taken into account relevant guidance issued by the Gambling Commission.

If your permit is granted, we'll issue it as soon as possible.

Appeal 

If you've applied for a permit, or a permit renewal, and have been refused, you can appeal to the Magistrates Court within 21 days.

While you're waiting to hear about your permit renewal, your existing permit will still be valid until you receive a response.

If your application is refused, your existing permit will be valid until the appeal has been determined.

Last updated 11 March 2024