Online Raffle Licensing in Canada: What Organizations Should Understand Before Applying

Why Licensing Is Often the Most Confusing Step

Organizations exploring online raffles often focus on technology, marketing, or prizes, only to discover later that licensing rules determine whether a raffle can happen at all. In Canada, raffle licensing is not centralized, and online availability does not simplify the process.

Raffle Licensing in Canada Is Provincial

There is no national raffle license in Canada. Raffles are regulated at the provincial level, meaning each province has its own gaming regulator and approval in one province does not carry over to another.

One License Does Not Automatically Allow National Sales

A common misconception is that an online raffle license allows ticket sales across Canada. In most cases, a raffle license applies to one province and ticket sales must be restricted accordingly.

Limited Geographic Exceptions Do Exist

Limited exceptions may exist in specific regulator-approved circumstances, such as reciprocal arrangements or special municipal treatment. These exceptions are rare, explicit, and not transferable between organizations.

Small Raffles vs. Larger Licensed Raffles

Many provinces offer different licensing pathways depending on raffle size or prize value. Smaller raffles may have simplified applications, while larger raffles require more detailed documentation.

The Application Process Is Rarely One-Step

Regulators may request clarifications, changes to rules, or adjustments to advertising during the review process. Organizations should not sell tickets or launch marketing until approval is granted.

Platforms, Hosting, and Jurisdiction Claims

Organizations may encounter platforms claiming national authority or alternative jurisdiction. From a regulatory perspective, licensing is assessed based on where participants are located and which organization is conducting the raffle.

Enforcement Reality: Why Organizations Still Face Risk

Even where regulators view unlicensed raffles as outside direct enforcement scope, they still control whether an organization may receive future raffle licenses.

Why This Matters for Ongoing Fundraising

Loss of licensing eligibility can affect future raffles, long-term fundraising programs, and access to gaming-related grants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a national raffle license in Canada?

No. Licensing is provincial.

Does selling tickets online make licensing easier?

No. Online raffles are still subject to provincial rules.

Can one license cover multiple provinces?

Generally no, unless explicit approval is granted.

Do small raffles have simpler licensing?

Often yes, but requirements vary.

Does platform location replace licensing requirements?

No.

About RaffleStudio

RaffleStudio does not issue raffle licenses and is not a charitable gaming supplier. Its role is to help organizations understand the process early and access compliant raffle software.

Final Thought

Licensing defines whether a raffle can legally operate. Organizations that understand provincial authority and geographic limits are more likely to avoid compliance issues.