Gaming and Gaming machines in licensed premises and clubs

Before the 31 August 2007, under the Gaming Act 1968, you were able to apply to your licensing magistrates to renew existing Part II and Part III club registrations, or to your local authority to renew a Section 34 permit. With the introduction of the Gambling Act 2005, this has all changed:

• Only those alcohol licensed premises with a bar authorised to serve drinks without food, are permitted to make gaming machines available for use.
• Any club or premise that does not hold a registration or permit should apply to their local authority with immediate effect.
• Any club registered under Part II will be treated as if it holds a club gaming permit under the 2005 Act, until the registration expires
• Any club registered under Part III will be treated as if it holds a club machine permit under the 2005 Act, until the registration expires
• Any premise with an existing Section 34 permit will be able to continue to operate until that permit ceases to have effect, or the 31 August 2010, whichever is the earlier date.
• Both clubs and premises with a current registration or permit will be required to apply to the local authority for a permit at least 2 months before the expiry dates, and abide by the Codes of Practice issued by the Gambling Commission.

Takeaway food shops, taxi offices and other non-gambling premises

Please note that if your premise:

• does not have an alcohol licence under the Licensing Act 2003, or
• does not hold an existing Section 34 permit or club registration Part II or III, or
• has an alcohol licence but does not have a bar authorised to serve drinks without food

then you are not able to make gaming machines available for use.

Further guidance notes and application forms for gaming machines for clubs and premises licensed under the Licensing Act 2003 can be downloaded using the links below.  Also refer to the Gambling Commission website for more information. www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk