Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to process a gaming application?
2. When does the Division meet to approve licences?
3. How high can the prize value be on a toonie/cookie jar?
4. Can seats be saved at a bingo hall by placing daubers, etc. on tables or tilting chairs?
5. How many bingo events can an organization have per week?
6. Can we make changes to our bingo format?
7. Is there an age limit for children in a bingo hall?
8. Are workers allowed to play bingo?
9. Are bingos allowed to lower prizes?
10. Is there a limit on prize amount for jackpot bonanzas pots?
11. What days does a bingo hall have to remain closed?
12. Does a bingo hall have to have the bingo balls displayed at the beginning of the evening?
13. Are house rules to be posted?
14. Do bingo halls have to use verification equipment?
15. Is there an application fee for a ticket lottery licence?
16. How can an extension on a lottery draw date be obtained?
17. Do we have to print our licence number on our tickets?

How long does it take to process a gaming application?

Normally within five working days, except in instances where additional information is required to complete the application process.

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When does the Division meet to approve licences?

Weekly.

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How high can the prize value be on a toonie/cookie jar?

$15,000 per day.

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Can seats be saved at a bingo hall by placing daubers, etc. on tables or tilting chairs?

Yes, this approach can be taken to save a seat at a bingo hall. However, it is unacceptable for the licensee to place bingo paper (cards) on a table in order to save a chair.

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How many bingo events can an organization have per week?

The number of bingo events permitted per week is determined by the Division during the approval process. Several factors may be considered before the number of bingo events per week is approved.

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Can we make changes to our bingo format?

Yes, however the licensee must submit a formal request to the Division 15 days prior to instituting the proposed changes.

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Is there an age limit for children in a bingo hall?

The Bingo Regulations do not set an age limit. It is up to the individual bingo hall operators to post house rules and notify the public of age restrictions.

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Are workers allowed to play bingo?

No person, while acting as a bingo caller or while employed as a checker in a bingo game shall play in that bingo game. As for those who sell cards, work the canteen or other off-duty workers, it is up to the individual bingo operator to decide if these workers play or not. A house rule should be posted to inform the public of its policy respecting this matter.

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Are bingos allowed to lower prizes?

Yes, if the bingo has written and received permission from the Alcohol & Gaming Division. Otherwise, bingo prizes cannot be lowered.

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Is there a limit on prize amount for jackpot bonanzas pots?

There is no limit providing the total value of prizes accumulated does not exceed $15,000.00 per day.

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What days does a bingo hall have to remain closed?

Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Remembrance Day, and Christmas Day.

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Does a bingo hall have to have the bingo balls displayed at the beginning of the evening?

Prior to the start of the bingo, the operators must set up the numbered display board and shall ensure all bingo balls are present and in good condition. At any time during the bingo game, players have the right to verify the numbers called during the bingo game.

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Are house rules to be posted?

The licensee shall post any house rules pertaining to the conduct of bingo in a conspicuous place or places within the licensed premises.

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Do bingo halls have to use verification equipment?

Yes, any licensee who conducts and manages a bingo shall use a verification book or electronic verifier approved by the Alcohol & Gaming Division.

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Is there an application fee for a ticket lottery licence?

There is no application fee; however, a fee of 2.13% of the total prize value must be paid 30 days after the draw date for ticket lotteries with a total prize value in excess of $500.

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How can an extension on a lottery draw date be obtained?

No licensee shall reschedule any draw date or cancel a ticket lottery without the prior written approval from the Alcohol & Gaming Division.

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Do we have to print our licence number on our tickets?

Yes, it is compulsory under the Ticket Lottery Regulations that the licence number assigned by the Division appear on all tickets.

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