Gambling sectors

Gaming machines on bingo premises

Gaming machines can be sited on bingo premises. The rules for the positioning of gaming machines, in relation to other activities on a premises, are listed in the Gambling Act 2005 (Mandatory and Default Conditions) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 and the (Mandatory and Default Conditions) (Scotland) Regulations 2007.

All gaming machines sited on bingo premises must comply with the Gambling Commission’s Gaming Machines Technical Standards. Category B3 gaming machines can be tested to the appropriate standard by an approved test house. Categories B4, C and D gaming machines can be tested by the original manufacturer.

What gaming machines can bingo premises offer?

Gaming machines fall into categories depending on the maximum stake and prize available.

 

Machine category

B3

B4

C

D

Bingo premises

Maximum of 20% of the total number of gaming machines which are available for use on the premises categories B3 or B4*

No limit on category

C or D machines

 * Bingo premises are entitled to make available a number of Category B3/B4 gaming machines not exceeding 20% of the total number of gaming machines which are available for use on the premises. 

Premises in existence before 13 July 2011 are entitled to make available eight category B3/B4 gaming machines, or 20% of the total number of gaming machines, whichever is the greater. 

Bingo premises licences granted on or after 13 July 2011 but before 1 April 2014 are entitled to a maximum of eight category B3/B4 gaming machines or 20% of the total number of gaming machines, whichever is the greater; from 1 April 2014 these premises will be entitled to 20% of the total number of gaming machines only.

Detailed information about gaming machines is available on our website.

 

Page last reviewed: July 2012

How do you rate this page?