What are the raffle laws of each state?
In the United States laws regarding raffles are decided upon by state governments just as other types of games of chance.
In the United States raffle laws vary considerably by state. Some states define charitable raffles as equal to lotteries and therefore have deemed them illegal. Other states allow raffles for charities but do not have lotteries.
Raffle License or Application
The application for the raffle license may be required by the state, county or city government. Sometimes organizations must file with the state and local government so it is always wise to contact all government agencies. Most applications require a fee.
Raffle Requirements
Each state also has different requirements about the organizations that are allowed to hold a raffle and the manner in which it is conducted.
For example according to the laws of Colorado, the organization must have been in existence for five years before an application for a bingo/raffle license can be made. Some state raffle laws limit the number of raffles that a tax-exempt organization can hold. Other states have other very specific laws about the value of prizes given away, the format of tickets and other aspects of the raffle.
Advance Planning for Raffles
Not-for-profit organizations should also keep in mind that some registering agencies require that permits be applied for in advance. For example in Iowa the department requests that applicants allow up to 30 days for processing the application.
The following is a list of links to raffle laws by state (where available).
Arkansas – Illegal; see proposed ammendment
Georgia – Contact County Sheriff’s Office
Hawaii – illegal
Illinois – Contact County Clerk
Kansas – Illegal; contact Attorney General for more info
Maryland – Also see raffle forms on this page
Massachusetts – Contact City Clerk
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee – Allowed, however regulations are very strict
Utah
Wyoming
The information and links provided on this site are intended as an informational resource. RaffleFAQ.com is not responsible for content provided on websites which are linked to from this site. No warranties or guarantees are implied or expressed. Information on this site is not meant as a substitute for advice given from a licensed attorney. Consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with state and local regulations, or risk investigation and/or penalties if a complaint is filed or law enforcement agencies become aware of non compliant activities.
