Do I need a licence to run a small raffle?

You usually do not need a licence for a small,, one-off raffle at a non-commercial event (like a school fete or community coffee morning), provided tickets are sold only during the event and it is not for private gain. If you sell tickets in advance, you likely need to register with your local council as a “small society lottery”.

Can I run a raffle without a licence?

The simplest way to organise a raffle is to have one as part of an existing event. This is known as an incidental, non-commercial lottery and does not require a licence or registration with your council to run. For this type of raffle you can use “cloakroom” style tickets.

How much is a raffle license in the UK?

There is a fee of £40 to register. If we agree to register you, there is also an annual fee of £20, which you must pay if you wish to stay registered.

What's the difference between a raffle and a prize draw?

A raffle involves purchasing tickets to win prizes, while a prize draw is free to enter. Active Consultancy specialises in managing both types of competitions, ensuring compliance and smooth prize fulfilment. Competitions and giveaways are effective tools for engaging customers and boosting brand loyalty.

How to run a small raffle?

Your step-by-step guide for how to run a raffle

1. Part one – What/who are you raising money for?:
2. Part two – Ideas for fundraisers:
3. Part three – Planning your raffle:
4. Part four – Choosing your raffle prizes:
5. Part five – Is your raffle legal?:
6. Part six – Designing your raffle tickets:
7. Part seven – Promoting your event:

How to Run a Raffle

What's the difference between a raffle and a giveaway?

Key Takeaways:

A raffle sells tickets where people pay for a chance to win prizes. A giveaway is free to join and mainly used for marketing or promotion. Raffles are regulated and may need permits depending on your location. Giveaways are easier to run, but must follow fair and clear selection rules.

Can I host my own raffle?

You need a licence to run a raffle lottery event. If you've applied before, you need to submit your application at least 30 days before your event. If you're a new applicant, you need to submit your application at least 45 days before your event.

Do I need a licence to run a raffle on Facebook?

Are facebook raffles legal? It's extremely unlikely that you will find a legally run raffle on Facebook, however with the correct licensing and permissions from the gambling authorities then yes it's possible.

What is the biggest mistake a lottery winner can make?

One of the biggest mistakes lottery winners make is rushing into permanent life changes without a solid plan and a clear understanding of what they can afford.

Can you have a cash prize in a raffle?

When a raffle is not the main focus, but part of a larger event, a licence is not required (for example, at a ball, fete, pub quiz etc). There must be no cash prizes, and the ticket sales and announcement of the results must be carried out during the event.

Can I start my own raffle business?

Q: Can I run a raffle website from home? Yes – but use a virtual business address to protect your personal information and meet legal obligations.

How long does it take to get a small lottery licence?

It usually takes three weeks for the licensing process to complete.

Do I need a licence for fundraising?

Depending on how you are collecting money you may need a licence, such as street collections and door to door fundraising (from your local authority) and you will need permission, if you are raising funds in or on private property, such as a supermarket.

Do you need a licence to run bingo?

We issue operating licences and personal licences. Premises licences are issued by local licensing authorities. You'll need an operating licence to provide bingo to players in bingo halls and remote bingo services where people pay to play.

Can I do my own raffle online?

Planning your virtual raffle

According to the Ultimate Guide to Running a Virtual Raffle, from digital fundraising experts Donr, a free draw is the simplest way to host a raffle. They are easy to organise and it does not need to be registered with the Gambling Commission or your local authority.

Does a raffle count as a lottery?

A 'lottery' is a broad term and includes many types of event, such as raffles, tombolas and sweepstakes. Normally a lottery is a game where you pay to enter, there is at least one prize, and winning is dependent only on chance.

Can you remain anonymous if you win the lottery in the UK?

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about winning Lotto. Can winners remain anonymous? A: Yes, absolutely. People can decide to share their amazing news, of course, but it's entirely up to them.

Has anyone ever won EuroMillions with a lucky dip?

Now, he has another reason to love the place after becoming a millionaire thanks to a National Lottery Lucky Dip he bought at one of its shops. Steven, a widower who used to work in the recycling industry, won the incredible £1M prize in the EuroMillions draw held on Friday 2nd May 2025.

What does God say about winning the lottery?

The Bible does not specifically condemn gambling, betting, or the lottery. The Bible does warn us, however, to stay away from the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10; Hebrews 13:5). Scripture also encourages us to stay away from attempts to “get rich quick” (Proverbs 13:11; 23:5; Ecclesiastes 5:10).

What is the difference between a raffle and a prize draw?

A raffle is a type of lottery, with again people buying a chance to win a prize. Raffles tend to have a range of prizes available and the ticket sales and raffle draw tend to happen as part of the same event, whereas a lottery tends to have a cash prize based on ticket sales. How are lotteries regulated?

Do I need a licence to run a prize draw?

Do I need permission to run a prize competition or free draw? You do not need permission or a licence from the Commission or a licensing authority to run genuine prize competitions or free draws, as long as they are organised in a way that means they meet the requirements of the Act.

Can you promote a raffle on social media?

A share on social media can reach people all over the world! Encourage everyone who sees your graphics to share them with friends, family, and networks. The more people exposed to your online raffle, the more tickets you'll be able to sell.

What is the most popular raffle item?

The most popular raffle prizes are surprisingly simple: gift cards and themed gift baskets. They appeal to almost everyone, eliminate guesswork, and let winners choose what they need most.

How do I run a raffle legally in the UK?

In the UK, raffles are seen as a form of lottery and gambling by the Gambling Commission. This means they must follow certain laws and restrictions. For more information, you can read the Gambling Commission guidelines. You may need to apply for a licence or register your raffle with your local authority.