Which states prohibit raffles?
Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah prohibit charitable raffles. If your organization is in one of these states, you cannot legally run a raffle. See how to run a raffle fundraiser for alternatives.
2026 state raffle laws guide
US Raffle Laws by State: Official Charitable Gaming Resources
TL;DR
US raffle laws by state with direct links to official charitable gaming agencies. Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah prohibit raffles. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, more than 50,000 organizations have used CharityAuctions since 2007. Find permits and regulations for all 50 states and DC. Organizations in prohibited states can run a charity auction as an alternative.
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Quick overview
US Raffle Laws by State: Official Resources
Raffle laws in the United States vary by state. Some states allow charitable raffles with permits. Others prohibit them entirely. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, more than 50,000 organizations have used CharityAuctions since 2007 to run fundraising events. This page links directly to each state's official charitable gaming authority so you can find permits, regulations, and application forms. For organizations in states that prohibit raffles, a charity auction is the most effective alternative.
This is informational only, not legal advice. Laws change. Consult your state's agency or a lawyer before running a raffle.
For planning, compliance, pricing, and execution, see how to run a raffle fundraiser.
PS: Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah ban raffles. A charity auction is the best alternative. See risk-free auction prize examples.
Prohibited states
States that prohibit raffles
Three states prohibit charitable raffles:
| State | Status |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Raffles prohibited. Considered illegal lotteries. |
| Hawaii | Raffles prohibited except when participation is free with voluntary donations. |
| Utah | Raffles prohibited. Considered gambling. |
If your organization is in one of these states, do not run a raffle. Consider alternatives: silent auction software, donation campaigns, or sponsorships.
Need a high-value grand prize that meets permit rules? Send me items I can list.
Online sales rules
States with online raffle restrictions
Some states allow in-person raffles but restrict or prohibit online raffle ticket sales. Examples include Arkansas, California, and New Mexico. Check your state's official resource below for current rules.
Short on time before your permit deadline? Send me items I can list.
Common requirements
Key legal themes
Before contacting your state agency, understand common requirements:
- Permits or licenses – Most states require nonprofits to obtain a permit before selling tickets. Fees often range from $15 to $500.
- Qualified organizations – Typically limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofits; some states require 1–5 years of operation.
- Ticket disclosures – Drawing date, time, location; prize descriptions; permit number; organization name and contact.
- Transparent drawings – Public or documented drawings; records of winners; retention for reporting.
- Post-event reporting – Financial reports (gross receipts, prizes, expenses) due 30–90 days after the raffle.
- Prize limits – Some states cap prize values or restrict cash prizes.
Source: National Council of Nonprofits
PS: Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah ban raffles. A charity auction is the best alternative. See risk-free auction prize examples.
Step by step
How to use this guide
- Find your state in the table below.
- Click the official link to reach your state's charitable gaming authority.
- Review permits, regulations, and applications on the state site.
- Apply early. Processing often takes weeks. Do not sell tickets until approved.
- Consult legal counsel if your situation is complex or you operate across state lines.
Need a high-value grand prize that meets permit rules? Send me items I can list.
Official links
US Raffle Laws: Official State Resources
Short on time before your permit deadline? Send me items I can list.
More guides
More resources
- How to run a raffle fundraiser – Planning, permits, pricing, formats, and execution
- 9 raffle games to help you raise more – 50/50, basket, wine pull, and more
- National Council of Nonprofits – State Fundraising Regulations
PS: Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah ban raffles. A charity auction is the best alternative. See risk-free auction prize examples.
Disclaimer
Legal disclaimer
Raffle laws change. State agencies reorganize. Links may become outdated. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always confirm with your state's official charitable gaming authority or a qualified attorney before conducting a raffle.
This guide is maintained by CharityAuctions. Bookmark this page and check state links periodically as laws evolve. Questions? Talk to our team.
Need a high-value grand prize that meets permit rules? Send me items I can list.
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US raffle laws FAQ
Where do I find my state's raffle permit application?
Use the table in this article to find your state's official charitable gaming agency (usually the Attorney General, gaming commission, or Secretary of State). Each agency link goes to permits, regulations, and application forms.
Can I sell raffle tickets online in my state?
Online raffle ticket sales are restricted or prohibited in several states, including Arkansas, California, and New Mexico. Check your state's link in the table above for current online raffle rules.
Do I need a permit before selling raffle tickets?
Most states that allow raffles require a permit or license before you sell tickets. Apply early. Processing can take weeks. How to run a raffle fundraiser covers the full planning and compliance process.
What can I do instead of a raffle in a state where raffles are prohibited?
Organizations in Alabama, Hawaii, and Utah can run a charity auction instead. Auctions do not require a gambling permit and are legal in all 50 states. According to CharityAuctions.com platform data, auctions with mobile bidding raise an average of 43% more per event than paper-based formats. See how to run a charity auction for a full planning guide.