Gaming Machines Licences
General information and guidance about Gaming Machines licensing and Gaming Machine Permits are available at the bottom of this document.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a licence?
Gaming machines which pay out a prize of cash or money's worth, previously also known as amusements with prize machines, require permission under the Gambling Act 2005. For amusement arcade type premises either an Adult Gaming Centre Premises Licence or a Family Entertainment Centre Premises Licence may be needed (see Gambling Premises). Such licences will also require an Operating Licence issued by the Gambling Commission. An arcade or similar premises which have only category D machines can apply for an Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre Gaming Machine Permit which does not require an operating licence. Details of the different categories of machine are available under documents on this page.
Pubs and other similar alcohol licensed premises have an automatic entitlement under the Act to one or two category C or D machines. If more than two machines are to be provided then an Alcohol Premises Gaming Machine Permit will need to be applied for which will attract an annual fee.
Members' clubs and similar establishments may apply for either a Club Machine Permit or a Club Gaming Permit, both of which allow the provision of up to three machines in categories B3A, B4, C or D. The Club Gaming Permit also allows limited unequal chance gaming.
What will I have to do?
Pubs and other similar alcohol licensed premises wishing to take advantage of the automatic entitlement to two machines should complete the application form and submit that with a one-off fee of £50 to the Council. If applying for an Alcohol Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permit then the same application form together with the fee, of £150 for new applications or £100 for applications where a permit has previously been held, should be submitted.
Applicants for a Club Gaming Permit or Club Machine Permit should contact the Licensing Section for an application form. Depending upon the type of application the fee will be either £200 or £100.
What does the application process involve?
Notice of automatic entitlement of two machines will be acknowledged by the Council as soon as possible. Applications for Alcohol Licensed Premises Permits will be processed, and provided the number of machines for which the permit is sought is not significant then a permit will be issued as soon as possible. Applicants from Clubs fall into three categories, fast-track, new and conversion. Fast-track application can be submitted by any Club holding a Club Premises Certificate issued under the Licensing Act 2003 and need be sent to the Council only. New and conversion (of a Part II or Part III registration under the Gaming Act 1968) applications as well as being submitted to the Council must also be copied to the Police and Gambling Commission.
What does the evaluation process involve?
Notification of automatic entitlement of two machines will be processed without any consultation. Applications for Alcohol Licensed Premises Permits will be processed and provided the number of machines for which the permit is sought is not significant then a permit will be issued as soon as possible. Applications from Clubs may involve consultation with the Police and the Gambling Commission.
Will Tacit Consent apply?
No. However, we aim to process all applications within 28 days. If you have not heard from us by the end of this time please contact us.
Can I make my application online?
An online application facility is not currently available. Application forms are available at the bottom of this page. Once completed these should be sent to the Council:
Licensing Section
Test Valley Borough Council
Beech Hurst
Weyhill Road
Andover SP10 3AJ
Contact details for the Police and Gambling Commission are available on the list of Responsible Authorities document on this page. Please note that at the present time there is no facility to submit online applications.
What can I do if my application fails?
Applications for permits may be refused. You will be advised if this happens and given the opportunity to attend a hearing where you will be able to explain why you think a permit should be granted.
What can I do if I am unhappy about the licence conditions?
Conditions are not attached to machine permits. Those responsible for the use of gaming machines must ensure that the appropriate Code of Practice issued by the Gambling Commission is complied with.
How can I make a complaint?
Please contact us in the first instance.
Are there other types of redress?
Applicants for and holders of a permit may appeal against rejection of partial rejection of an application. Appeal is by way of a notice to the local Magistrates' Court which must be submitted within 21 days.
Are there any trade associations?
British Amusement Catering Trades Association (see link on this page)