For a business to have gaming machines, some form of authorisation is normally required. Typically this is:
- An operating licence from the Gambling Commission and a gambling premises licence from a licensing authority, or
- An alcohol premises licence from a licensing authority and a gaming machine notification, or
- An alcohol premises licence from a licensing authority and a gaming machine permit.
The Gambling Commission’s guidance to licensing authorities (part 16) outlines those machines needing to be licenced under the Gambling Act 2005 and those exempt from licencing. You will need to comply with the Gambling Commission’s codes of practice regardless of whether you need a licence.
Gaming machines in alcohol licensed premises can be category C or D machines. If there is a maximum of two or less gaming machines, a notification of this needs to be submitted to the licensing authority. If more than two gaming machines, an application for a gaming machine permit needs to be submitted.
If you are a club you may find it useful to read the Gambling Commission’s Advice to licensing authorities on club gaming permits and club machine permits: Gambling Act 2005.
Apply
To submit a gaming machine notification or to apply for a gaming machine permit for an alcohol licensed premises, complete and return the relevant application with the relevant fee: