The Gambling Act 2005 came fully into force on 1st September 2007 and the responsibility for gambling is split between Local Authorities and the Gambling Commission.
The Act deals with Gaming, Lotteries and Betting.
Statement of Principles
The Gambling Act 2005 requires Local Authorities to publish a Statement of Principles. Our Statement of Principles lists the three licensing objectives:
- Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime or disorder, or being used to support crime
- Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way
- Protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling.
Lotteries
Information on running a lottery can be found on our dedicated page.
Gambling Premises Licences
Premises Licences are issued by us and include:
- Casino Premises Licence
- Bingo Premises Licence
- Adult Gaming Centre Premises Licence
- Family Entertainment Centre Premises Licence
- Betting Premises licence
Gambling Permits
The Gambling Act introduced a range of permits for gaming machines, which are granted by us.
Objecting to Licences
Local residents, ward Councillors, resident associations and local businesses or business groups may make representations to the Local Authority about the grant or change of a licence. The responsible authorities – Police, Fire Service, Environmental Health, Planning and the Safeguarding Children Board may also make representations or object.
Operating Licences
Operating Licences are issued by the Gambling Commission (external link) and are required for individuals and companies who intend to provide facilities for certain types of gambling, for example casino operating licence, bingo operating licence or a gaming machine operating licence. The Gambling Commission also deals with personal licences for operators.
Race Nights
Generally speaking you would not need a licence to hold a race night to raise money for charity. For more information on organising a race night, please visit the Gambling Commission’s Race Nights (external link) page.