Licensing is required in some jurisdictions to operate bingo. In most cases, a bingo licence is required if the game is played for money.
Bingo is not typically considered a gambling activity, so no licensing is required in most cases to operate bingo as a social event. .
While there are a few jurisdictions that do not require a licence to hold bingo, it is always advisable to check with local authorities before holding a game. Failure to comply with local licensing requirements can result in fines and/or jail time.
In most cases, the person organising the game must have a licence. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
For example, in Québec, the Société des loteries et jouets du Québec (SLJQ) must approve all bingo games before they are played. In Ontario, the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) does not have jurisdiction over bingo games, so any organisation wishing to hold a game must obtain a licence from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
There are also a few states where bingo is not regulated at all. This includes Kansas, Louisiana and New Hampshire.
In these states, anyone can organise and hold a game of bingo without any licensing requirements.
Overall, it is always advisable to check with local authorities before organising or holding a game of bingo. Failure to comply with licensing requirements can lead to fines and/or jail time.
