Circumstances in which you do not need a gaming machine (fruit machine, slot machine) operating licence
There are some circumstances in which you do
not need a gaming machine (fruit machine, slot
machine) operating licence:
Prize gaming machines
You do not need any kind of licence to run gaming machines that
do not offer a prize at all, or do not offer a prize worth more
than the price you pay to play the machine.
You may apply to your local licensing authority for a prize
gaming permit, which will let you offer bingo prize gaming
machines. For more information on these permits, see our licensing
authorities pages.
Gaming machines (fruit machines, slot machines) at home
You can own gaming machines for your private use, as long
as you are the only person who plays them.
Pubs
Your alcohol licence lets you operate two category C or
category D gaming machines
(fruit machines, slot machines). As a pub owner you can also apply
to your local licensing authority for a gaming permit, which lets
you run a total of four category C or category D
machines.
Clubs
You may apply for a club gaming or club gaming machine permit
from your local licensing authority. These permits allow you
to operate up to three machines (fruit machines, slot
machines) from category B3A and below.
Fairs and travelling circuses
You can let people play category D and prize gaming
machines at travelling fairs, as long as the fair is mainly
composed of attractions that do not involve gambling.
Unlicensed family entertainment centres
If you are running a family entertainment centre under a permit
from your local licensing authority, you can operate category D
machines and bingo prize gaming machines.
Page last reviewed: July 2011