Running a gambling or betting business in Great Britain means holding the right licences from the Gambling Commission, meeting ongoing social-responsibility and anti-money-laundering duties, paying gambling duties to HMRC, and — if you operate physical premises — obtaining a premises licence from the local licensing authority. On top of that, every business that employs people must meet workplace health and safety, fire safety, employers' liability insurance, equality and data protection obligations.
The Gambling Act 2005 applies in England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland has a separate gambling regime under the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, regulated by local councils — this guide does not cover it.
What you need to do
Identify the description that best fits your business, then follow the guides in order.
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Every gambling and betting business
Start with the universal workplace duties. Follow "Set up and run a safe gambling business" for your health and safety, fire safety, employers' liability insurance, equality and data protection obligations.
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You provide gambling facilities (betting, casino, bingo, gaming machines, online gambling or lotteries)
You need a Gambling Commission operating licence, personal management licences for key staff, and — if you have physical premises — a premises licence from the local council. You must also register for and pay gambling duties to HMRC, and if you operate a casino you must comply with anti-money-laundering supervision. Follow "Meet your gambling licensing and regulatory duties".
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Confirm you have covered everything
Work through the gambling and betting compliance checklist to confirm your obligations are met before you open or continue trading.
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations
Browse UK legislation (opens in a new tab) legislation.gov.uk