Social & Charitable Gambling

Topics:

Gambling & Amusement Devices

DIAL's Social & Charitable Gambling Unit (SCG) regulates all gambling that occurs outside of a casino. It does not oversee Iowa Lottery products or online sports betting.

Charitable Gambling is for non-profit organizations and includes activities such as: 

  • Bingo
  • Raffles
  • Games of Skill and Chance (generally carnival-style games)
  • Game Nights (generally casino-style games)

 Social Gambling is for bars and other public venues and includes activities such as:

  • Sports Betting Pools (only allowed in bars)
  • Small stakes wagering by patrons on non-structured card and parlor games

Amusement Concession Gambling is for businesses that are for-profit and includes activities like:

  • Carnival-style games
  • Arcade-style games

SCG also regulates the sale of all bingo/electronic raffle supplies and equipment. It does this under the license type Bingo or Electronic Raffle Manufacturer or Distributor.

Rules and Law

SCG administers Iowa Code Chapter 99B, which covers all gambling activities. 

SCG also administers Iowa Administrative Code (481) Chapters 100-106. The Administrative Code supplements Iowa Code Chapter 99B.

How to Apply for a Gambling License

DIAL’s licensing system makes it easy to complete applications and renewals online for those:

  • Conducting charitable gambling,
  • Conducting/allowing social gambling,
  • Conducting amusement concession gambling, or
  • Selling bingo/electronic raffle equipment or supplies.

The system accepts both Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) and credit/debit card payments. There is a $1 transaction fee for bank transfers and a 2.5% transaction fee for credit and debit cards.

Please note: The application fees are non-refundable. Please make sure to complete all required fields and attach any required documentation. Follow the SCG Online User Guide for step-by-step instructions.

DIAL must issue a license before any distribution begins. Please be aware that DIAL has a 30-day processing time for gambling applications. DIAL cannot guarantee on time processing for missed deadlines or incomplete applications.