Rules of Play for Raffles in Canada: Why They Matter

What “Rules of Play” Actually Are

Rules of play are not marketing language, boilerplate text, or a formality added at the end of the licensing process. They are a core regulatory document that defines exactly how a raffle will operate. Provincial gaming regulators rely on the rules of play to determine whether a raffle is fair and transparent, whether participants are properly informed, whether the raffle mechanics comply with provincial requirements, and whether the organization is capable of operating the raffle as proposed. In practice, the rules of play function as the operating contract of the raffle.

Rules of Play Are the Foundation of the Raffle

A useful way to understand rules of play is to think of them as the foundation of a house. Everything else in the raffle process is built on top of the rules. If the foundation is unclear, inconsistent, or incomplete, nothing above it can be relied on.Rules of play should be drafted before a raffle application is submitted, because the information contained in the rules must align precisely with the raffle license application, the ticket mockup submitted to the regulator, and the way the raffle will ultimately be operated.For example, if an organization plans to sell $100,000 worth of tickets, which may equate to 5,000 tickets, that structure must be reflected consistently across the rules of play, the application to the provincial gaming regulator, and the ticket mockup provided for review.The same applies to draw dates, prize details, ticket pricing, purchase limits, and draw methods. These elements flow from the rules of play into the application and the ticket mockup. If they do not match, regulators will typically require revisions or return the application for correction.

Why Regulators Place So Much Weight on Rules of Play

From a regulator’s perspective, the rules of play are the primary safeguard for participants. They exist to ensure transparency around pricing, odds, and prizes, consistency between what is advertised and what is delivered, that raffle mechanics cannot be changed after approval, and that disputes can be resolved based on documented terms.If a raffle is ever audited, questioned, or challenged, regulators look first to the approved rules of play.

What Regulators Typically Expect Rules to Address (High-Level)

While requirements vary by province, regulators generally expect rules of play to clearly define, at a minimum:- Ticket pricing and purchase limits- Total number of tickets or total ticket value- Draw dates, times, and locations- How winners are selected- Prize descriptions and values- Geographic restrictions on ticket sales- Any conditions or limitations affecting participationThese elements must be precise. Ambiguity creates risk and is one of the most common reasons raffle applications are delayed.

Why Rules of Play Must Match the Raffle Software Exactly

Regulators approve specific mechanics, not general intentions. If the approved rules state limits on ticket sales, geographic restrictions, or draw timing, the raffle software must enforce those conditions exactly.If the software allows actions that the rules prohibit, or fails to enforce conditions the rules require, the raffle may be considered non-compliant, even if the issue was unintentional.

Common Rules-of-Play Issues That Delay or Derail Applications

Many raffle applications encounter delays because the rules contain avoidable issues, such as:- Ticket pricing or quantities that do not align with the application- Missing or unclear geographic restrictions- Draw methods that are not clearly defined- Advertising language that contradicts the rules- Assumptions that rules can be “fixed later”

Rules Often Change During the Review Process

It is normal for regulators to request revisions to the rules of play during application review. This may include clarifying language, adjusting pricing or ticket limits, aligning rules with advertising, or ensuring the raffle structure meets provincial expectations.What ultimately matters is not the first draft, but the final approved version.

When Rules Become Binding

Once a raffle license is issued, the approved rules of play become enforceable. The raffle must be operated exactly as approved. Deviations, even minor or accidental, can invalidate the raffle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are rules of play for a raffle?Rules of play are the official terms that define how a raffle operates.

Are rules of play required for all raffles?

In most licensed raffles, yes.

Do rules of play have to be approved by the regulator?

Yes.

Can rules of play change after a raffle is approved?

Generally no.

Why must rules of play match the raffle application and ticket mockup?

Because regulators assess the raffle as a complete package.

Do rules of play have to match the raffle software exactly?

Yes.

Are rules of play the same in every province?

No.

Who is responsible for ensuring rules of play are followed?

The charitable organization holding the raffle license.

Final Takeaway

Rules of play are the foundation on which every licensed raffle is built. Drafting them early and aligning them with the application, ticket mockup, and software platform significantly reduces regulatory risk and improves compliance.