Gambling Policy

Travelling fairs may provide an unlimited number of Category D gaming machines provided that facilities for gambling amount to no more than an ancillary amusement at the fair. They do not require a permit to provide these gaming machines but must comply with legal requirements about how the machine operates. Current stakes and prizes can be found at Appendix B of the Gambling Commission guidance.

Higher stake category B and C fruit machines, like those typically played in arcades and pubs, are not permitted. Fairground operators must source their machines from a Commission licensed supplier and employees working with gaming machines must be at least 18 years old.

This licensing authority is responsible for deciding whether, where category D machines and/or equal chance prize gaming without a permit is to be made available for use at travelling fairs, the statutory requirement that the facilities for gambling amount to no more than an ancillary amusement at the fair is met.

The licensing authority will also consider whether the applicant falls within the statutory definition of a travelling fair.

It is noted that the 27-day statutory maximum for the land being used as a fair applies on a per calendar year basis, and that it applies to the piece of land on which the fairs are held, regardless of whether it is the same or different travelling fairs occupying the land. This licensing authority will work with its neighbouring authorities to ensure that land which crosses our boundaries is monitored so that the statutory limits are not exceeded.