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Residential gaming

Residential gaming is a form of private gaming that takes place in shared accommodation settings where people live temporarily or permanently. 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:

  • all be present in the same location and play the game together in person
  • make sure at least half of the people playing live at that location.

What you must not do

You must not:

  • 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
  • collect any voluntary or compulsory fees or charges from the money players bet or win
  • run the game as part of a trade or business
  • play the bingo virtually, or online in any way.

Example

A group of 4 friends want to play a game of bingo at their student halls. They invite 2 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
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