Gaming Machines

A permit is required for providing amusements with prizes by way of machines (AWP machines), more commonly known as fruit machines.

There are several different types of AWP machines defined by the Gaming Act 1968, and premises with a liquor licence need to apply to the Magistrates' Court for a permit. A local authority can issue permits for two types of AWP machines with a maximum payout of up to £25 and only to premises without a liquor licence:

A permit to cover Cash-Restricted Machines (maximum cash prizes of £5.00, with anything above £5.00 up to a maximum of £8.00 being paid in tokens or non-cash prizes).

A permit to cover All-Cash Machines (maximum cash prises of £10.00) either on their own or with cash-restricted machines.

Any permit granted which allows All-Cash Machines will be issued subject to a condition that persons aged under 18 are not admitted to the premises.

Amusements with Prizes Otherwise than by Machines

Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976 and Gaming Act 1968

Other forms of gaming on commercial premises (e.g prize bingo) need a permit.  The Magistrates' Courts are responsible for issuing permits for premises licensed for the sale of alcohol and the Council for other premises.

Bingo clubs need to be licensed by the Magistrates' Courts subject to certain limits on entrance fees and total value of prizes paid out, bingo can be held without a permit or licence if the proceeds are to go to charity.

Our Licensing Office (contact details on the main Licensing Office page) will be able to assist you further with any enquiries relating to gaming machines.

You can download an application form here (Pdf document size 50 KB) or alternatively contact out Licensing Office. The prescribed fee of £32.00 must be submitted with your completed application form.

The Gambling Act 2005 will replace the current permit system which will be administrated entirely by local authorites. More details on the Act can be viewed at the web site of the Department for culture, Media and Sport (DCMS)-please see our Gambling Act 2005 page for contact details).