Woking Borough Council
Civic OfficesGloucester SquareWokingSurreyGU21 6YL
Telephone: 01483 755855
Gaming machine permits
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What is a gaming machine permit?
The Gambling Act 2005 introduces permits for gambling, which are granted by the Council. These permits replace the Section 34 permits and will be required when premises provide a gambling facility but gambling is not the main function of the premises. The permits regulate the use of gaming machines in specific premises.
Who can apply for a gaming machine permit?
Premises with a licence, under the Licensing Act 2003, for consumption of alcohol on the premises, which contains a bar where alcohol is served, but without a requirement that alcohol is served only with food.
What am I entitled to?
For such qualifying premises there is an automatic entitlement to two machines of category C or D, subject to notifying the licensing authority in writing of your wish to use this entitlement, paying the prescribed fee of £50 and complying with any relevant code of practice issued by the Gambling Commission. There is no annual fee, however, if the alcohol premises licence is transferred, then a new written notification is necessary along with a further £50 fee.
Is there an annual fee?
There is an annual fee of £50 for more than two machines, but not for two or less machines.
What is a category C/D machine?
| Category of machine | Maximum "stake" | Maximum prize |
|---|---|---|
| C | 50p | £35 |
| D | 10p money prize | £5 money prize |
| 30p non-money prize | £8 non-money prize |
Can I have more than two machines?
Applications can be made for a licensed premises gaming machines permit, which allows for further category C or D machines to be made available in alcohol-licensed premises. The limit of additional machines will be determined by the Licensing Team in each individual case.
What are the fees for more than two machines?
| New applicant |
£150 |
|---|---|
| Existing s.34 permit holder |
£100 |
| Variation to a permit |
£100 |
| Transfer of a permit |
£25 |
How long does the permit last?
The permit application and notification must be made in the premises licence holders name and last as long as premises licence remains in that name. The permit is subject to an annual fee.
Can I have machines in a takeaway/taxi office/shop/café or similar?
From 1 August 2006, fruit machines began to be phased out from premises whose main purpose is not the sale/supply of alcohol. This is to ensure that children and other vulnerable people are not exposed to gambling in certain non-gambling premises. If you currently have a fruit machine, you will be allowed to continue to have your fruit machine until your current permit expires.
How do I apply?
Send a copy of the application form, along with the fee to the licensing team.