Rules and regulations for lotteries, raffles and tombolas

Lotteries, raffles, and tombolas are great fundraising ideas, but they are also regulated by law, so if you plan to use them, it is important that you read and understand the following guidelines.

All of these activities are games of chance where people pay for an opportunity to win a prize or money. Some events, such as duck or balloon races, are also covered by lottery laws.

If an element of skill is introduced, it becomes a competition and there are fewer restrictions.

There are many types of lottery that can be run ‘in aid of the BPA’ very easily. For the first two, you do not need any licences. Make sure you note contact details of buyers on the ticket stubs, in case they aren’t around when you do the draw.

• Incidental non-commercial lottery: This refers to a lottery/raffle/tombola that takes place during an event (e.g. fete, fun day, dinner dance). All tickets must be sold during the event and results announced the same day (at the event). No more than £100 may be deducted from proceeds to cover expenses (e.g. printing tickets) and £500 to cover prizes (does not include donated prizes). Tickets must all be the same price. No rollovers. Money raised at the event, such as entrance fees must go entirely to purposes that are not for private gain.
• Private lottery: For private lotteries, only members of a society/club/workplace and people on those premises can take part. Tickets cannot be sold to the general public or advertised externally. There are no limits on sales or prizes. The promoter must be a member of the organisation or workplace. Tickets must show the price, the name and address of the promoter, and who is eligible to take part. Tickets must all be the same price and must be paid before entering the draw. No rollovers allowed.
• Small society lotteries: These raffles are open to the public and tickets can also be sold in advance; they must be registered with your local authority. A named promoter must take responsibility. If you wish to run this type of activity, please contact the BPA for further advice.