You will need a gaming machine permit if you are planning to:
- install gaming machines in premises licensed for alcohol under the Licensing Act 2003
- install gaming machines in club premises where membership is restricted to members and guests
It is an offence to install gaming machines in any premises not licensed under the Gambling Act 2005, or in a premises not covered by a Licensing Act 2003 Premises Licence (authorising alcohol) or a Licensing Act 2003 Club Premises Certificate.
If a machine can be classed as a Skill with Prizes machine, it will be exempt from the scope of the Gambling Act 2005, and therefore, can be installed in any premises without the need to hold any form of permission. Your supplier should be able to advise you on what type of machine you are being supplied.
You can read more about gaming machines at Gambling Commission (external link).
Online applications for Gaming Permits
Unfortunately, it is not currently possible to apply for gaming permits online. However, we are happy to accept signed PDF copies via email.
Postal application forms
Licensing Act 2003 alcohol licensed premises:
Clubs:
Completed paper forms should be returned with the statutory fee (PDF) to:
The Licensing Department, East Cambridgeshire District Council, The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4EE.
Before completing your application, your attention is drawn to our privacy and data retention policy (PDF).
Applicants are also required to supply a copy of their application to the relevant Responsible Authorities according to the type of application being submitted:
Application type | Responsible Authority to be consulted |
|---|---|
Notification of up to 2 machines | None |
Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit | None |
Club Machine Permit | Gambling Commission & Police* |
Club Gaming Permit | Gambling Commission & Police* |
* Not required if the applicant holds a Club Premises Certificate issued under the Licensing Act 2003.
What happens next?
It is in the public interest that East Cambridgeshire District Council must process your application before it can be authorised. If you have not received a response to your application within a reasonable period, please contact us using the details below.
Telephone: 01353 665555