Voluntary Exclusion

Alcohol and Gaming is mandated to ensure that lottery schemes in Nova Scotia are conducted in the best interest of the public. This mandate includes the protection of those members of the public who have determined that they have difficulty controlling their gambling activities. The Voluntary Exclusion Program has been designed to work within that framework. This program enables individuals to request that they be refused access to the casinos.

Information on the Voluntary Exclusion Program is available from the Alcohol and Gaming Division or the casino operator. If an individual wishes to participate in this program, they can simply contact a member of the security staff of the casino. The process consists of reading the information on voluntary exclusion; reviewing the process of revoking a voluntary exclusion; signing a declaration that they have read and understood the information on the program; and having a photograph taken for identification purposes. This information, including the photograph, is maintained in the casino security office to assist in the enforcement of the program.

Voluntary exclusion is a process administered by Alcohol and Gaming through the Gaming Control Act. The process is designed for people who feel it is in their best interest not to participate in casino gambling. By entering this program you are agreeing not to attend any casinos in the province of Nova Scotia.

Why Choose Voluntary Exclusion?

This process is helpful to people who have experienced problems as a result of gambling and want to deal with these problems. Such problems might include:

• difficulty controlling the urge to gamble or gambling addiction
• financial difficulties related to gambling
• other personal problems which have resulted from gambling

How Does It Work?

By signing a Request for Voluntary Exclusion form, you are voluntarily removing yourself from attending gambling casinos in the province. The only authorized Request for Voluntary Exclusion forms are those drafted by the Alcohol and Gaming Division and they are available at the casinos in Halifax and Sydney and in the offices of the Alcohol and Gaming Division in Dartmouth and Sydney. Before signing one of these forms, it will be read to you by a casino or Alcohol and Gaming employee to ensure that you understand the terms of your exclusion. If you decide to enter into this agreement, the form will be kept on file at Nova Scotia's authorized casinos in Halifax and Sydney. Your photograph will be taken and kept at the casinos for identification purposes.

What Happens After Entering The Program?

If you enter a casino in Nova Scotia the security staff will have your Request for Voluntary Exclusion form and photograph on file. You will be identified quickly and escorted from the casino.

How Long Does It Last?

The Voluntary Exclusion Program lasts indefinitely.

Can You Ever Go Back To The Casino?

The only way you will be allowed to re-enter the casino after you have signed the Request for Voluntary Exclusion form is if you are reinstated by Alcohol and Gaming. To apply for reinstatement, you must write, fax or call Alcohol and Gaming to request an Application for Reinstatement of Access to the Casino(s) form.

Application Forms

• Voluntary Exclusion - Request for Exclusion [ - 124.22 kb]
• Voluntary Exclusion - Application for Re-Instatement [ - 119.34 kb]

Key Documents

• Nova Scotia 2000 Gambling Addiction Help Directory [ - 268.37 kb]