Gambling and lotteries

In the UK, most gambling activities are regulated under the Gambling Act 2005, and licences are required by anyone arranging any of the following activities: 

  • betting
  • bingo
  • casino gaming
  • prize gaming (including poker)
  • use of gaming machines
  • lotteries and raffles

The exceptions to this are for the National Lottery and spread betting, which are regulated under other laws, and various types of non-commercial gambling (such as charity raffles, providing they meet certain criteria).

We are responsible for issuing licences, permits and notices to authorise gambling activities which take place at premises in our area.

To provide gambling activities you will usually need 3 licences:

  • Operating licence - Gambling Commission
  • Personal management licence - Gambling Commission
  • Premises licence - Harboruogh District Council

The Gambling Commission provides operating and personal management licences.