Raffle, tote and lottery licences

The promotion of lotteries (this covers raffles and totes) is governed by the Gambling Act 2005.

Check if you need a licence

‌The following types of raffles, totes and lotteries do not require registration:

• a private lottery where the sale of tickets is strictly restricted to members of a society only, such as a rugby club or a sports and social club
• a small lottery where tickets are sold and prizes are drawn at the same event, such as a social dinner or bazaar
• raffles where the tickets are sold on the same day as the draw

A more detailed summary of the requirements of the law relating to lotteries is available in our Small Society Lotteries guidance document (PDF, 72kb).

If you are unsure if you need a licence contact us using the details at the bottom of this page.

Raffles

Tickets must be pre-printed and include:

• the words 'Newark and Sherwood Council'
• the name of your society
• the name and the address of the promoter
• the date on which the draw is to take place

You cannot spend more than 80% of the total proceeds on prizes.

Following the draw, you must complete a returns form (PDF, 111kb) and send it to us using the details at the bottom of this page. 

Totes

If only members of your society hold tote numbers, this is classed as a private lottery and is exempt from the act. 

If, however, members of the public take part in the tote, then you must apply for a licence, and submit a return of expenses form (PDF, 111kb). 

You cannot spend more than 80% of the total proceeds on prizes.

Apply for a licence

Your society must fill out and return a raffles, totes and lotteries registration form (PDF, 318kb).

There is an initial licensing fee of £40. Subsequently your registration can be renewed each year by completing this lottery renewal form (PDF, 589kb) and returning with a fee of £20. Both fees can be paid online using our payments portal.

We will process your application within 28 days of us receiving it. 

If successful, you will be provided with a registration certificate. A register of licensed lotteries is available at the council offices for public inspection.