Do I need a license to hold a raffle in Maine?

Yes. Maine requires organizations to obtain a license from the Chief of the State Police, Gambling Control Unit, before conducting raffles or games of chance. The specific license depends on the type and scale of gaming activity.

Who can legally hold a raffle in Maine?

Maine permits bona fide nonprofit organizations, including charitable, educational, religious, fraternal, civic, and veterans organizations, to conduct raffles. The organization must be organized under Maine law and operated for purposes other than gaming.

What is the connection between beano and raffles in Maine?

In Maine, beano (bingo) and raffles are both regulated under the state's charitable gaming laws. While they require separate licenses, many organizations that run beano games also conduct raffles as part of their fundraising activities. Both are overseen by the Gambling Control Unit.

Are there prize limits for Maine raffles?

Yes. Maine sets limits on individual prize values and total prizes per event. The specific limits depend on the type of license held. Organizations should check current regulations with the Gambling Control Unit for the most up-to-date prize caps.

Can I sell raffle tickets online in Maine?

Maine's charitable gaming statutes were written primarily for in-person activities. Online ticket sales are not specifically addressed and would require consultation with the Gambling Control Unit and legal counsel to determine permissibility.

Maine Raffle Laws: Complete Legal Guide for Nonprofits

Maine allows nonprofits to conduct raffles, beano (bingo), and other games of chance under a licensing framework overseen by the Gambling Control Unit. This guide covers the requirements for running a legal raffle in the Pine Tree State, including licensing, prize limits, and reporting obligations.

Excited participants at a nonprofit raffle event in Maine — Raffles are a time-honored fundraising tradition for Maine nonprofits

Legal Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Maine raffle laws as of 2026. Laws change frequently. Always consult with legal counsel or the Maine Gambling Control Unit for current requirements.

Maine Raffle Laws: Quick Facts

Who Can Hold Raffles:	Bona fide nonprofit organizations
License Required:	Yes, from Gambling Control Unit
Governing Law:	Title 17, Chapter 62 (Games of Chance)
Beano Connection:	Separate license required
Cash Prizes:	Permitted within limits
Online Sales:	Not specifically authorized
Reporting:	Required after each event
Age Requirement:	Participants must be 16+

Who Can Conduct Raffles in Maine?

Maine's games of chance statutes (Title 17, Chapter 62) permit specific types of nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles. The law distinguishes between different gaming activities and requires separate licenses for each.

Eligible Organizations Include:

Charitable organizations incorporated in Maine
Religious organizations
Educational institutions
Fraternal organizations
Civic and service organizations
Veterans organizations
Volunteer fire departments and auxiliaries

Licensing Requirements

Maine requires a games of chance license for raffles, which is separate from beano licenses. The Gambling Control Unit within the Department of Public Safety administers the licensing process. For a nationwide overview of raffle regulations, see our complete guide to raffle laws by state.

License Application Steps:

Apply to the Gambling Control Unit, Department of Public Safety
Provide proof of nonprofit status
Describe planned raffle activities and prizes
Pay the applicable license fee
Designate a responsible person for gaming operations
Receive approval before conducting any raffle

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Prize Limits and Rules

Key Prize Regulations:

Individual prize limits: Set by license type
Cash prizes: Permitted within established caps
Merchandise prizes: Fair market value applies
Net proceeds: Must be dedicated to charitable purposes

Prohibited Activities

Operating without a valid games of chance license
Allowing participation by persons under 16 years of age
Using gaming proceeds for non-charitable purposes
Paying excessive compensation to gaming operators
Conducting games at unauthorized locations

Conducting Your Raffle: Maine Requirements

Maine Raffle Compliance Checklist

Obtain games of chance license from Gambling Control Unit
Verify nonprofit status and organizational eligibility
Ensure prizes are within permitted limits
Print tickets with organization name, price, and drawing details
Keep minors (under 16) from purchasing tickets
Conduct drawing in a fair and open manner
Maintain detailed financial records
File post-event report with the Gambling Control Unit
Direct net proceeds to charitable purposes
Retain records for required period

Financial Reporting

Maine requires licensed organizations to report on their gaming activities. Reports must include gross receipts, prizes awarded, expenses, and net proceeds. Timely reporting is essential for maintaining your license.

Online Raffle Rules in Maine

Maine's gaming laws were written for in-person activities. Online raffle ticket sales are not specifically authorized under current statutes. Organizations should consult with the Gambling Control Unit before attempting digital sales. For guidance on organizing your raffle effectively, see our raffle ticket templates guide.

Tax Implications

Winners: Prizes of $600 or more must be reported to the IRS
Maine income tax: Winners may owe state income tax on winnings
Organizations: Gaming income may be subject to UBIT

Penalties for Violations

Warning: Conducting unlicensed games of chance in Maine is a criminal offense. Penalties can include fines, license revocation, and prohibition from future gaming activities.

Best Practices for Maine Raffles

Get Licensed First: Never conduct a raffle without proper licensing
Know the Beano Distinction: Raffles and beano require separate licenses
Age Verify: Ensure all participants are 16 or older
Document Everything: Keep thorough records of tickets, prizes, and proceeds
Report Promptly: File all required reports on schedule
Stay Current: Check with the Gambling Control Unit for any regulation changes

Official Resources

Looking for raffle laws in other states?

View All States | New Hampshire

Make Your Maine Raffle a Success

Maine provides a clear path for nonprofits to conduct legal raffles through its Gambling Control Unit licensing system. By obtaining the proper license and following prize and reporting rules, your organization can run effective fundraising events.

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