Lottery activities in Bermuda are generally prohibited under the Lotteries Act 1944 unless they fall within specific exemptions outlined in the legislation. The Act defines lottery as any scheme, method, or device whereby prizes are allotted or distributed by lot or chance to persons participating in the lottery (2). Any person who promotes, conducts, or attempts to promote a lottery within Bermuda commits an offence unless the lottery is deemed lawful under the Act's exemption provisions.
The Bermuda Gaming Commission, established by the Gaming Act, is responsible for approving and regulating permitted lottery activities. The Commission oversees several classifications of lawful lotteries including small lotteries incidental to entertainments, lotteries promoted by societies or clubs, charitable and benevolent lotteries, hotel lotteries, private lotteries, and business lotteries (1). Each category must comply with strict conditions regarding ticket sales, prize distribution, and promotional activities to maintain lawful status.
"Subject to subsection (3), any person who promotes or conducts or attempts to promote or conduct a lottery within Bermuda commits an offence against this Act."
Charitable and benevolent lotteries require written permission from the Commission and must be promoted by at least three residents ordinarily living in Bermuda. Promoters must submit financial returns within three months after the lottery date, including total proceeds, expenses appropriated, and receipts from beneficiaries (2). The Commission may refuse permits or seek advice from Charity Commissioners before approval, ensuring all proceeds are devoted to charitable purposes after deducting permitted expenses for entertainment, printing, and prize purchases.
Source:
https://www.bgc.bm/lotteries-raffles
http://www.commonlii.org/bm/legis/consol_act/la1944135.pdf
Last updated: 16-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
