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Residential gaming

Residential gaming is one of two forms of what's known as 'private gaming' - which can only take place somewhere the public can't access.

Where it can take place

Anywhere the public does not have access to. For example, a hostel or halls of residence.

You do not need a licence for this kind of gaming.

What you must do

You must:

  • physically play the game together, at the same physical location
  • make sure at least half of the people playing live at that location.

What you can't do

You can't:

  • charge any entry fees - this includes any kind of admission fee or fee for taking part
  • make a profit from the game - even if you intend to donate the profits to charity or good causes
  • deduct from or ‘levy’ on money staked or won by players in the game. It doesn’t matter if the charge is voluntary or compulsory
  • run the game as part of a trade or business
  • play the bingo virtually, or online in any way.

Example

A group of four friends want to play a game of bingo at their student halls. They invite two more friends over to join them and everyone plays the game at the same physical location, using a bingo board game.

Every player pays a £1 stake and this makes up the pot of money which can be won.

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Domestic gaming

Last updated: 1 July 2021

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