Gaming machine permits

One of the most common types of gambling is the use of gaming machines in non-gambling premises - for example in pubs, bars and clubs. As these are generally only a secondary attraction in these premises, the proprietors will usually need to hold one of several types of permit to authorise their use.

The Gambling Commission provides information on the categories of gaming machine which may be made available in premises with gambling permits.

Gaming machines in pubs and bars

Pubs and bars can make gaming machines available for use if they hold a licensed premises gaming machine permit, or have given a notification and paid a prescribed fee to us. For more information, please see our Gaming machines in pubs and bars page.

Club gaming and machine permits

Members' clubs can apply for permits to allow the operation of up to three gaming machines in the club premises, or higher-stakes prize gaming. Only club members may use the machines or participate in gaming and not members of the public. We will look at how access to the premises is restricted as part of the application process. For more information, please see our Club gaming and machine permits page.

Family entertainment centre gaming machine permit

Operators of premises wishing to make a number of low value (category D) gaming machines available for use may do so under a family entertainment centre gaming machine permit. The use of gaming machines or other family-oriented entertainments must remain the main purpose of the premises. For more information, please visit our Family entertainment centre gaming machine permits page.

Prize gaming permits

Certain premises (mainly those with alcohol licences) are entitled to offer various types of prize gaming (such as card games, dominoes and bingo, played for prizes). Other types of premises wishing to provide similar gaming will need to obtain a prize gaming permit. For more information, please see our Prize gaming permits page.

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Page Last Updated: Wednesday, 19 October 2022 at 02:41 PM