Gaming licence

If you want to run gambling activities in South Lanarkshire, you may need a gaming licence or permit. This includes one‑off fundraising events like bingo, poker or casino nights, as well as regular gaming activities. You must apply before the event or activity starts so we can check it meets the law and keeps people safe.

This page explains when you need a licence, the main rules for common events, and what to do next.

Who needs a licence or permit

You need to apply if you plan to run any of the following:

• adult gaming centre
• betting track
• bingo or bingo nights
• casino or casino nights
• club gaming permit or club gaming machine permit
• family entertainment centre, licensed or unlicensed
• prize gaming
• small lotteries

Gambling is controlled by law. Licences and permits set limits on stakes, prizes and who can take part.

Running a casino night

If you are holding a casino night, often for fundraising:

• do not charge more than £8 per person in total
• the entrance fee must include all stakes
• you cannot charge extra to take part
• the total value of prizes must be £600 or less

Running bingo nights

• only allow people aged 18 and over
• do not charge a participation fee
• limit stakes to £5 per person per game
• keep weekly stakes and prizes below £2,000

Poker nights and supervision

If you run a poker night:

• do not allow side bets, re‑buys or other ways to increase the pot beyond legal limits
• stop play and return stakes if limits are exceeded
• keep records of games played, players and amounts staked and won

A named person must be responsible for all gambling. They must supervise play and prevent under‑age gambling, including checking ID where needed.

Take action

• contact us to check which licence or permit you need
• apply for a gaming licence or permit
• ask for advice before planning your event

If you already hold a licence, you can also use this service to apply to change the terms of your existing licence.

How to apply

Once you submit your application, we will process it and keep you informed.

Apply or get help

You can apply online for a new licence or request changes to an existing one.

If you need help with your application or want an update, contact the Licensing and Registration office.

You can also get more information from the Gambling Commission website.

Our Statement of gambling principles has more information on our gambling policy.

South Lanarkshire Licensing Board statement of gambling principles is currently under review.  If you would like a copy of the draft revised policy, please email licensing@southlanarkshire.gov.uk.