Ohio Gaming Commission
A “game of chance” is poker, craps, roulette, or other game where the participant pays money in hope of gain, the outcome of which is largely determined by chance.
Generally, games of chance may only be conducted at festivals of charitable organizations that last for no longer than a period of four (4) consecutive days and are held not more than twice a year or for a period of five (5) consecutive days not more than once a year. Craps, roulette, and slot machines are not permitted at festivals. The game of chance must be conducted on the premises owned by the charitable organization or leased from a qualifying organization.
Organizations wishing to conduct a game of chance must also meet the following additional requirements pursuant to Policy 201:
- the organization must have received a tax-exempt determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service stating that it is exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code;
- the organization must qualify as a “charitable organization” as defined in the Ohio Revised Code; and,
- with the exception of a volunteer rescue service, firefighter’s organization, or veteran’s or fraternal organization, the organization must have been in continuous existence for a period of not less than two years.
No license is required for a qualified charitable organization to conduct games of chance at festivals.
Ohio Gaming License Lookup
- Ohio’s race tracks are also permitted to conduct video lottery sales by use of video lottery terminals overseen by the Ohio Lottery Commission. Ohio permits businesses to promote their products and services by conducting bona fide sweepstakes promotions. A sweepstakes is not gambling because the participants do not pay for the chance to win a.
- The Ohio gambling commission, called the Ohio Casino Control Commission was created in 2011 with the passage of the Casino Control Law (Revised Code Section 3772). Some of the Commission’s duties include the licensing, regulation, investigation, and jurisdiction of all those involved with casino gaming.
Ohio Gaming Commission Reports
Every casino operator, casino employee and gaming vendor must be licensed by the Commission prior to participating in the casino gaming business in Ohio. The state’s Casino Control Law requires all persons applying for licensure to establish their suitability by clear and convincing evidence.