While eligible tax-exempt organizations registered with the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts may conduct fundraising raffles, charities and anyone other than a licensed gaming establishment are not allowed to offer poker tournaments, “Monte Carlo” or “Casino Night” events, or casino games such as craps or roulette.

It is the Attorney General’s view that anyone other than a licensed gaming establishment holding controlled card games would violate state law (Penal Code §§ 330;337j). The only exception is for games played with cards in private homes or residences in which no person makes money for operating the game, except as a player.

If you need further information on this issue, contact the Attorney General’s Division of Gambling Control at GamblingControl@doj.ca.gov or (916) 263-3408.

http://www.ag.ca.gov/charities/index.htm