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I've heard about the new Gambling Act 2005, what has changed?
The system for regulating gaming and gaming machines in members clubs and minors welfare institutes, which was covered by the Gaming Act 1968, is now covered by the Gambling Act 2005. Members clubs which are currently offering gaming machines and other gaming under a part II or part III registration should read this page to find out about the new system.
My existing Part II or part III registration is about to expire, what should I do?
You should apply to us for the relevant new permission under the Gambling Act 2005.
What permission/permit do I need under the new Gambling Act?
The 2005 Act replaces the current system of registrations with two new permits:
- Club machine permit - This permit entitles clubs to offer up to three category B4 gaming machines. It does not permit any other type of gaming. It is the equivalent to a part III registration under the old 1968 Gaming Act.
- Club gaming permit - This permit entitles clubs to offer up to three category B4 gaming machines, plus facilities for equal chance gaming (subject to certain limits which are prescribed by regulations.) It is the equivalent to a part II registration under the old 1968 gaming Act.
My existing part II or part III registration has yet to expire. Do I need to do anything?
No your existing registration will remain valid until it expires. For the purpose of the Gambling Act 2005 you will now be treated as having been granted the relevant new permit:
- Clubs registered under Part II will be treated as if they hold a club gaming permit.
- Clubs registered under Part III will be treated as if they hold a club machine permit.
I think my existing part II or part III registration may have expired. What should I do?
You should switch off your gaming machines, and cease providing any other gaming. If your existing permit has expired then you will have to apply for the equivalent new permit under the new gambling Act and you won't be able to provide gambling of any sort until your new permission has been approved.
How do I apply for a new permit?
You must use the government prescribed form which can be downloaded from this page. You should send a copy of your existing registration with your application. You can find out what the fee will be for your application below.
What category of gaming machines can I provide?
The law establishes several categories of gaming machines. It restricts the gaming machines that can be operated in a members club to categories B3A, B4, C and D. The level of stakes and prizes define the category of a machine.
|
Category of machine
|
Maximum stake
|
Maximum prize |
| B3A (not available for use in commercial clubs) |
£1 |
£500 |
| B4 |
£1 |
£250 |
| C |
50p |
£35 |
| D |
10p or 30p when non monetary prize |
£5 cash or £8 non monetary prize |
Fees
- The fee to accompany an application for a club machine permit or a club gaming permit, by the holder of an existing part II or part III registration is £100.
- The fee to accompany an application for a new club machine permit or a new club gaming permit is £200.
- The first annual fee for both permits is £50 - due within 30 days of the issue date of the permit.
- The annual fee for both permits is - £50.
Are there any other rules or regulations that I need to be aware of?
There are a number of statutory conditions relating to the way in which gaming machines are used, and you will also need to ensure compliance with the Gambling Commissions code of practice on the location and operation of gaming machines. See the attachment available on this page.