General
AGLC offices holiday closure
While AGLC offices will be closed from December 24, 2024 to January 1, 2025, a number of services remain available. More information on how to contact us over the holidays is available here.
If you’re looking to run a raffle for your charity event, it is important to know all the details and to ensure it is legal and licensed. All lotteries and raffles require a licence and only charitable organizations can apply. Let us help you answer your questions.
To apply for approval to conduct raffle licenses fill out the Eligibility for Raffle Licence
Questions and Answers
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Can I sell 50/50 tickets and squares that are less than $1,000 without a gaming licence?
No, all 50/50s and squares are legal gaming events and must be licensed. Individuals are not eligible for a raffle licence. Only charitable or religious organizations can obtain a raffle licence.
If I sell squares on Facebook and follow their rules, do I need a raffle licence?
Selling squares is considered a raffle and requires a raffle licence. Individuals are not eligible for a raffle licence. Only charitable or religious organizations can obtain a raffle licence. The sale of raffle tickets is not permitted through social media, such as Facebook.
We are planning an anniversary. Do we need a raffle licence if we are selling tickets only to our invited guests to raise funds for the couple to go on a holiday?
Anniversaries and holidays are considered social events and are not eligible for a gaming licence. You cannot sell raffle tickets for this purpose. If you do so, it could be subject to criminal investigation and criminal charges.
We would like to help a few community members with things like rent, food, medical bills and prescriptions. Can we get a raffle licence to raise money for this?
No, the sale of raffle tickets to cover personal items is not an eligible expense from gaming proceeds. You cannot sell raffle tickets for this purpose. If you do so, you could be subject to a criminal investigation and criminal charges.
Does AGLC have jurisdiction all over the province?
Yes, AGLC has jurisdiction over gaming activities throughout the whole province of Alberta.
How do I get an ID for my child’s sports team to run a raffle?
Complete the Eligibility for Raffle Licence (Total Ticket Value $20,000 and Less Only).
- the team's name will be the group’s full name.
Can the funds raised for my child’s sports team be used for apparel?
No. Gaming funds cannot be used to pay for:
- personal apparel, gear or equipment
- social team functions
- travel to tournaments out of province
If I have a raffle account from my child’s sports team from last year. Do I need to make a new account for this year’s team?
Yes. Every season, each team will need to re-apply for raffle licensing -- even if the team name, players and raffle chairperson is the same.
Can my adult sports team get a licence to have a raffle?
No. Adult sports are not considered charitable and are not eligible for gaming licensing.
Can I raise money to pay for my personal expenses (e.g. travel, accommodation, competitions)?
No. Raising funds for personal expenses is not eligible for a gaming licence.
Do I need a liquor licence to do a liquor basket raffle?
No. You only need a raffle licence.
Can we have a 50/50 to raise funds for our grad committee?
No. Grad events are considered social events and are not eligible for a gaming licence.
Can we have a 50/50 to raise funds for our social committee?
No. Fundraising to pay for social events or activities is not eligible for a gaming licence.
Can I raffle a large gift basket or have a 50/50 to help a friend who is sick?
No. Raising funds for an individual or for family expenses is not eligible for a gaming licence.
Do I need a raffle licence if the draw is only open to our members?
Yes. Complete the Eligibility for Raffle Licence (Total Ticket Value $20,000 and Less Only).
Can I hold a Chase the Ace fundraiser in Alberta?
Yes. Chase the Ace with a total ticket value $20,000 and less is legal in Alberta. Complete the Eligibility for Raffle Licence (Total Ticket Value $20,000 and Less Only).