Maryland Raffle Laws: Complete Legal Guide for Nonprofits
Maryland has a unique approach to raffle regulation: gaming laws are primarily administered at the county level rather than the state level. This means rules can vary significantly depending on where your organization operates. This guide covers the framework governing charitable raffles across Maryland and what you need to know to stay compliant.
Legal Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Maryland raffle laws as of 2026. Because regulations vary by county, always consult with your local gaming authority and legal counsel for requirements specific to your jurisdiction.
Maryland Raffle Laws: Quick Facts
Regulation Level:
County-level (varies by jurisdiction)
Permit Required:
Yes - county gaming permit
Who Can Hold Raffles:
Qualified nonprofits
Prize Limits:
Varies by county
Online Ticket Sales:
Generally not permitted
Governing Law:
MD Criminal Law Article 12 & 13
Key Agency:
County gaming authorities
Who Can Conduct Raffles in Maryland?
Maryland allows qualified nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles as a fundraising tool, but you must obtain a gaming permit from your county. Understanding the different types of raffles can help you choose the right format for your event.
Generally Eligible Organizations:
Charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status
Religious organizations and churches
Fraternal organizations
Veterans organizations
Volunteer fire departments and rescue squads
Educational organizations and PTAs
Civic and community organizations
County-Level Variations
Maryland is unique because each of its 23 counties and Baltimore City maintains its own gaming regulations. This means:
Permit application processes differ by county
Some counties have stricter requirements than others
Prize limits may vary from county to county
The agency that issues permits differs (sheriff, clerk of court, or gaming commission)
Minimum organizational existence requirements can vary
Maryland Gaming Permit Requirements
Application Process
While the specifics vary by county, the general process for obtaining a gaming permit in Maryland includes:
Submit an application to the appropriate county authority
Provide proof of the organization's nonprofit status
Describe the raffle event, including prizes and expected revenues
Pay the applicable permit fee
Apply well in advance of the event (lead times vary)
Common County Requirements
Typical Permit Conditions:
Organization must have been in existence for a minimum period (often 1-2 years)
Raffle proceeds must benefit the organization's charitable purpose
No individual can profit from the raffle
Drawing must be conducted at a specified time and place
Detailed financial records must be maintained
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Maryland Raffle Restrictions
Prize Rules
Prize limits vary by county - some cap individual prizes, others set aggregate limits
Cash prizes may be restricted or prohibited in some counties
Prizes of $600 or more require IRS reporting (W-2G)
Vehicle and real estate prizes may have additional requirements
Operational Rules
Only members or authorized volunteers can sell tickets
No compensation for ticket sellers in most counties
Tickets must generally be sold within the county where the permit is issued
Minors typically cannot purchase tickets
Professional gambling operators cannot be used
Conducting Your Raffle: Maryland Requirements
Maryland Raffle Compliance Checklist
Identify your county's gaming authority and obtain application forms
Verify your organization meets eligibility requirements
Apply for gaming permit well in advance
Design tickets with required information (organization name, drawing details, price)
Ensure all ticket sellers are unpaid volunteers or members
Restrict ticket sales to eligible purchasers (age requirements)
Conduct drawing at the specified time and location
Maintain detailed financial records
File required reports with the county after the event
Report prizes of $600+ to the IRS
Financial Management & Reporting
Record Keeping
Maryland county gaming permits typically require organizations to maintain:
Complete accounting of all ticket sales
Itemized list of prizes and their values
All expenses related to the raffle
Net proceeds and their distribution
Winner names and contact information
Post-Event Reporting
Most counties require a financial report after the raffle. This typically includes:
Gross receipts from ticket sales
Prize expenses and administrative costs
Net proceeds and how they were used
Report must be filed within the timeframe specified by the county (often 30-60 days)
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Online Raffle Rules in Maryland
Maryland generally requires raffle tickets to be sold in person within the state. Online ticket sales are not specifically authorized under most county gaming permits and could be considered illegal gambling. For a broader perspective on digital raffle regulations, check our online raffle laws guide.
Penalties for Violations
Warning: Conducting a raffle without a proper gaming permit in Maryland can result in criminal charges under the state's gambling laws. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment, and the specific consequences vary by county and the nature of the violation.
Common Violations
Operating without a valid gaming permit
Exceeding permitted prize limits
Selling tickets outside the permitted area
Paying ticket sellers or using professional operators
Failing to file required post-event reports
Diverting proceeds from charitable purposes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to hold a raffle in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland requires organizations to obtain a gaming permit from the county or Baltimore City before conducting a raffle. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Some counties handle permits through the local sheriff's office, while others use a gaming commission or clerk of court.
What are Maryland's raffle prize limits?
Maryland's prize limits depend on the county and permit type. In many jurisdictions, individual prize values may be capped, and there are often aggregate limits per event or per year. Check with your county's gaming authority for specific limits.
Can I sell raffle tickets online in Maryland?
Maryland generally requires raffle tickets to be sold in person within the state. Online ticket sales are not specifically authorized under most county gaming permits and could be considered illegal gambling.
Who can hold a raffle in Maryland?
Maryland permits qualified nonprofit organizations to conduct raffles, including charitable, religious, fraternal, educational, and civic organizations. The organization must obtain the appropriate county gaming permit.
How do Maryland raffle regulations vary by county?
Each of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City has its own gaming laws. Permit requirements, prize limits, frequency restrictions, and eligible organizations can differ significantly depending on where your raffle takes place.
Maryland's county-level gaming regulations require careful attention to local rules, but with proper permitting and planning, your organization can run a successful raffle. The key is contacting your county's gaming authority early and following their specific requirements.
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