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.
