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
Last updated: 9 April 2025
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