Charity Raffles in Licensed Premises – What You Need to Know

Charity Raffles in Licensed Premises – What You Need to Know

Running a raffle in your pub, club, or bar can be a great way to raise money for charity, bring your community together, and create a bit of fun. However, as with many activities on licensed premises, there are legal requirements and rules you need to follow to stay compliant.

Understanding the Law

Raffles (or “lotteries”) are regulated under the Gambling Act 2005. This law sets out what types of raffles can be held, who can run them, and the limits on ticket sales and prizes.

For most charity events held in pubs and clubs, the two main types of raffles you’ll come across are:

1. Incidental Lotteries – These are the most common. They are run as part of an event, such as a quiz night or charity fundraiser, and don’t need to be registered with the Gambling Commission or local authority.

   • Tickets can only be sold during the event (not in advance).

   • All proceeds, after deducting reasonable expenses, must go to charitable or good causes.

   • There’s no limit on ticket prices or prize values.

   • The results must be announced at the event.

2. Small Society Lotteries – These are raffles that are not linked to a single event and are run to raise money for good causes.

   • The society must be registered with the local authority.

   • Tickets can be sold in advance, and the draw can take place later.

   • There are limits on prize values and the total proceeds.

   • At least 20% of the proceeds must go to the charitable purpose.

Things to Avoid

Even with good intentions, it’s easy to slip into non-compliance. Watch out for:

• Selling raffle tickets behind the bar in the days leading up to an event (this would not count as an “incidental lottery”).

• Offering alcohol as a prize that hasn’t been purchased through your normal licensed supply route.

• Failing to clearly identify the charity or cause the raffle supports.

• Running a raffle that looks like a commercial lottery, where the profit isn’t donated to charity.

Best Practice Tips

• Always make sure the raffle is transparent — display where the proceeds are going and how much was raised.

• Keep records of ticket sales and prize costs.

• Check with your local authority licensing team if you’re unsure which category your raffle falls into.

• If the event is large, consider seeking advice from a licensing professional or charity law specialist.

Final Thoughts

Charity Raffles in Licensed Premises – What You Need to Know. Charity raffles can be a brilliant way to support local causes and engage your customers, but it’s important to get the details right. By understanding the basic rules under the Gambling Act and keeping everything open and above board, you can raise money for good causes without risking a compliance issue.