Organize lottery, contest, bingo
Games of chance allow players to win a prize where they cannot influence the outcome of the game. Examples of games of chance include a lottery or bingo. A contest in which the winner is determined by a draw is also a game of chance.
In the Netherlands, it is prohibited in many cases to organize a game of chance without a license. Exceptions are small games of chance and games of chance that are not open to the public and are not given on a business basis.
What is a lottery?
A lottery is a game of chance in which participants buy lottery tickets that allow them to win prizes. A contest in which the winner is determined by a draw is also a lottery.
It is obligatory to spend the proceeds of a lottery on things that are useful to society (general interest). For example: building a new clubhouse, renovating a church or buying new instruments for a musical society.
The proceeds of a lottery should not serve any commercial or private interest (personal gain).
Rules
- You ensure that at least 40% of your proceeds go to the common good. This means that you may spend up to 60% of the lottery proceeds on costs. Costs include: printing of lottery tickets and posters, notary fees, gaming tax and the like.
- Is the value of the prize pool lower than €4,500? Then you need a permit from the municipality.
- Is the value of the prize pool higher than €4,500? Then you must apply for a license from the Dutch Gaming Authority.
What is a small game of chance?
Small games of chance are:
- bingo / keno
- bird pecking game (looks like darts)
- Wheel of Fortune / Wheel of Adventure
Only associations or foundations may organize a small game of chance (such as a bingo). You do not need to apply for a permit for this. However, you must report the small game of chance to the municipality no later than 14 days prior to the activity (see 'Arrange online').
Rules
- It is a Dutch association or foundation.
- The association or foundation exists for at least 3 years.
- The purpose of the association or foundation must be clearly described in the bylaws.
- The purpose of the association or foundation is not contrary to the public interest.
- The association or foundation has a purpose other than organizing (small) games of chance.
- The prize pool (cash or goods) must not exceed €400 per set to be played. The total value must not exceed €1,550 per event.
- The small game of chance is not aimed at personal benefit of one or more members of the association or foundation organizing the small game of chance.
Gaming tax
Gambling tax may have to be paid on the prizes. You can read more information about this on the Tax Office's website | Gaming Tax.
What to do
Lottery
- The prize pool is less than €4,500 > You apply for a permit from the municipality. You do this at least 8 weeks before the lottery is held.
- Prize pool exceeds €4,500 > You apply for a license from the Dutch Gaming Authority.
- Caution! You may not hold the raffle in a bar, hotel or restaurant. This is in violation of the Alcohol Law.
You do not need a permit if:
- The lottery is held in private (for example, between colleagues in a company or with family members in the home).
- It is a lottery for which the participants do not buy a ticket and is intended to advertise (promotional purpose). You must then comply with the conditions set out in the Code of Conduct on Promotional Games of Chance.
Small game of chance
- You make a notification 14 days before the small game of chance is held (see 'Arrange online').
- If the prize pool exceeds €400 per set to be played, or the total value exceeds €1,550, you must apply for a permit from the municipality.
- Caution! You may not hold the raffle in a bar, hotel or restaurant. This is in violation of the Alcohol Law.
Online Arranging
Cost
Notification
Making a report is free of charge.
Gaming license
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Gaming license | € 84,98 |
Price changes and typographical errors reserved.
How long will it take?
Notification
A notification is taken by the municipality for notice. The municipality does not send you a confirmation. If there are any questions, the municipality will contact you.
Permit
You will be notified within 8 weeks whether you will receive the permit.