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    Exempt Permit

    Rather than conducting charitable gambling on an on-going basis—which requires a license—many nonprofits conduct limited gambling activities, often in conjunction with other fundraising events (festivals, annual dinners, county fairs, etc.). An exempt permit (sometimes simply referred to as a "permit") is generally the correct choice for these situations.

    Who Can Conduct Gambling Activities in Minnesota?
    Only registered nonprofit organizations can conduct lawful gambling activities (bingo, raffles, pull-tabs, tipboards, and paddlewheels) in Minnesota.

    Proof of Nonprofit Status Required
    You must provide ONE of these documents:

    • Certificate of Good Standing for the current calendar year (Contact Minnesota Secretary of State: 651-296-2803)
    • IRS 501(c) tax exemption letter in your organization's name (Contact IRS: 877-829-5500)
    • For affiliates of parent organizations, you'll need both: 
      • the IRS letter showing the parent nonprofit's status with group ruling
      • the charter/letter from the parent nonprofit recognizing your organization

    What Are the Limitations Under an (Exempt) Permit?

    • up to 5 gambling events (in a calendar year)
    • a total prize package limit of $50,000 (in a calendar year)
    • One permit application is needed for each gambling activity

    What gambling activities are allowed?

    • bingo
    • raffles
    • pull-tabs
    • tipboards
    • paddlewheels

    What Forms Will We Need?

    Are There Any Simpler Options Than a Permit?
    There are two categories of streamlined "Excluded Gambling" activities for you to look at (and, yes, the name "excluded" is a little confusing...). These options have more limits than a permit or license but offer a simpler application process (or none) and no processing fee.

    • "Excluded Bingo" – bingo that only requires a straightforward application, with no processing fee
    • "Excluded Raffle" – A smaller-scale raffle that does not require submitting anything to the Gambling Control Board, but prize packages must meet certain limits ($1,500/5,000).

    Important Note
    The Gambling Control Board currently interprets Minnesota statute to allow an organization to participate in only one of these categories per calendar year. Carefully plan any fundraising activities that involve charitable gambling to avoid unintentionally limiting your options.

    How can I learn more?
    Keep exploring the Gambling Control Board’s website, where you’ll find detailed information on licenses, permits, and much more. Still have questions? Contact the Licensing Specialist for your county, or give us a call at (651) 539-1900.

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