The Department of Government Modernization and Service Delivery is reminding the public about the charitable lottery licensing process after receiving questions about how to apply and about what is permitted under Section 206 of the Criminal Code of Canada and the Lottery Licensing Regulations.
All charitable lotteries and gaming events in Newfoundland and Labrador must be licensed to operate and must be conducted in accordance with the regulations. There are many instances of people wanting to hold a charitable lottery or fundraiser in support of a good cause; however, to conduct a lottery, there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met to obtain a licence. The public are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the eligibility criteria and rules before holding such an event.
Only eligible charitable, religious and incorporated non-profit organizations, with charitable purposes, may obtain a lottery licence. A list of eligible organizations is available here. Conducting lottery events over social media is not permitted. Individuals are not eligible to apply for a lottery licence and anyone wanting to fundraise for an organization should consult with that organization directly.
To apply, eligible organizations can visit the department’s website and complete the online application. It typically takes 10 business days to process and issue a lottery licence, if the application is completed properly and the required supporting documentation is provided.
Incomplete applications may result in a delay in approvals. The department will contact the applicant if the application is incomplete or further information is needed. Once an application has been approved, the licence will be issued via email. If the application does not meet the eligibility criteria, the licence will not be approved.
If people have questions while completing their applications, they can call (709) 729-2600 or toll free 1-877-968-2600, or email lotterylicence@gov.nl.ca.
General rules for the types of charitable lotteries that are permitted in the province can be found on the department’s website. Lottery activities allowed include:
- Bingo
- Bingo-breakopen
- Breakopen
- Chase the ace
- Games of chance
- Monte Carlo
- Sports lotteries
- Ticket lotteries, including door prizes and raffles
Members of the public who choose to participate in a charitable lottery can ensure that it is licensed by looking for the lottery registration number on the ticket, or at the location where tickets are being sold.
To submit a complaint about a lottery, please contact the department by email at consumeraffairsaccount@gov.nl.ca.
People should contact local law enforcement to report an illegal lottery. To report an illegal lottery to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, please contact your local detachment, or call 1-800-709-7267.To report an illegal lottery to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, please call 709-729-8000, or use the online reporting system.
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