Licence - gaming machines

Gambling Act 2005

The Gambling Act 2005 replaces most of the existing law about gambling in Great Britain and puts in place an improved, more comprehensive structure of gambling regulation. This includes a new structure of flexible protections for children and vulnerable adults and, in particular, brings the burgeoning Internet gaming sector within British regulation for the first time. It creates a new independent regulatory body, the Gambling Commission, which will be the new, tough national regulator for commercial gambling in Great Britain.

The Gambling Commission will be responsible for issuing operators and personal licences under the new legislation.

Local Authorities, which became Licensing Authorities under the Licensing Act 2003, will assume responsiblity for issuing premises licences from 1st September 2007.

Gambling Policy

Carlisle City Council consulted on their draft policy between 3rd July and 22nd September 2006.

The final copy was adopted by Full Council at their meeting on 7th November 2006. The policy was published on this website on 21st December 2006.

Download Carlisle Gambling Policy Statement in pdf format.

As from 1st September 2007, all gambling activities, including machines, comes under the Gambling Act 2005.

A gaming machine permit or premises licence is required in respect of premises providing amusements with prizes by way of machines. The most common applications of gaming machines are those commonly referred to as 'fruit machines' and 'one-armed bandits' which make small payments. Typically these machines would be found in amusement arcades, motorway service stations, as well as pubs and clubs.

Where premises have a Premises Licence under the Licensing Act 2003, the gaming machine permit is obtained from the local authority. The application must be made by, or on behalf of, the Premises Licence Holder. If representing the licence holder written authorisation is required.

Gaming machines now come in four categories A to D. The lowest stake and payout being the Category D machines. What you may apply for and the type of permit required is dependent upon a number of factors. An enquiry with the licensing section is recommended for guidance on this matter.

A permit is not required where the machine in question is based only on a game of skill (for e.g. quiz machines), or is an amusement only machine and in either case no money or token is paid out by the machine.

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