Small Society Lotteries - Do I need to register for my lottery?

Small Lotteries are sometimes referred to as raffles or draws and can be a good way to raise funds for charitable purposes.  If money is paid for the chance to win a prize where no skill, judgement or knowledge affects the outcome, this is known as a lottery and your society may need to register with the local authority.

If all of the tickets are sold on the same day as the draw, for example at a fete or dance, this would not require registration and can still be run using "cloakroom" tickets.  

Lotteries which exceed the limitations set for "Small Lotteries" must register with the Gambling Commission.  

Please use the link below to view the full guidance notes.  This may help you decide whether you need to register and how to comply with the legislation.  

If you require further advice, the contact details for the Licensing Team can be found at the top of this page.

PDF file Small Lotteries guidance (125KB - 01 April 2009 - PDF Help)

The cost for first registration is £40 and a fee of £20 due on the anniversary of first registration if you wish to continue for a further twelve months.

PDF file Application form for Small Society Lottery registration (88KB - 31 July 2009 - PDF Help)

Word Document Application form for Small Society Lottery registration (87KB - 01 April 2009)

When you have held your lottery draw you must make a return to the licensing authority no later than three months after the date of the draw.  Please use the link to download a Lottery Return form.

PDF file Lottery Return form (40KB - 01 April 2009 - PDF Help)

Word Document Lottery Return form (99KB - 01 April 2009)

Page last updated on 31 July 2009