Overview

Charitable raffles in Nova Scotia are regulated at the provincial level under a detailed licensing and compliance framework. Nova Scotia permits a wide variety of raffle formats, including online raffles, terminal-based raffles, 50/50 draws, and subscription-based raffles, provided all licence conditions and approval requirements are met.

Regulatory Authority

Charitable gaming in Nova Scotia is regulated by the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division (AGFTD) of Service Nova Scotia. AGFTD determines eligibility, issues raffle licences, approves raffle formats and prize structures, approves electronic lottery systems, and enforces compliance.

Mandatory Licensing Requirement

All raffles conducted in Nova Scotia must be licensed. Licensing applies regardless of ticket price, prize value, event size, or duration. Licence numbers must appear on all tickets and advertising.

Eligible Organizations

Raffle licences may be issued to registered charities, non-profit organizations, and community organizations. Raffle proceeds must be used exclusively for approved charitable or community purposes.

Raffle Formats Permitted in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia licenses a wide range of raffle formats, including 50/50 raffles, calendar draws, elimination draws, sports lotteries, event-based raffles, and electronic lotteries.

Online and Terminal-Based Raffles

Nova Scotia permits both online and terminal-based raffles when licensed and approved. Electronic raffles must capture, at a minimum, the player’s name and phone number. Anonymous or bearer-style electronic raffles are not permitted.

Electronic Lottery Systems and Supplier Approval

Electronic raffle systems must be provided by an approved charitable gaming supplier. The supplier is required to demonstrate the platform to AGFTD, and approval is required prior to use. All systems must be auditable and operate as approved.

Subscription-Based Raffles

Nova Scotia permits subscription-based raffles, provided the subscription model and platform mechanics are reviewed and approved in advance. Automatic ticket issuance and billing are permitted only as part of an approved subscription structure.

50/50 Raffles

50/50 raffles are permitted when licensed. Prize calculation methods must be approved and disclosed, and administrative expenses must be paid from the licensee’s share.

Guaranteed Jackpots and Seeding

Guaranteed jackpots and seeded prize structures are not automatically permitted. Any guaranteed or seeded prize structure must be explicitly approved and clearly disclosed.

Platform Fees and the 15 Percent Cap

Nova Scotia caps raffle platform fees at 15% of gross ticket sales, unless otherwise approved. The cap applies to online raffle platforms, electronic raffle systems, and terminal-based services.

While the fee cap is intended to protect charitable proceeds, it has practical implications. Electronic and terminal-based raffles involve fixed costs such as hardware, logistics, support, and compliance overhead. For small raffles, the capped fee may not be sufficient to cover these costs.

As a result, terminal-based raffles are generally economically viable only for larger events. Smaller charities may need to rely on online-only raffles or traditional ticket formats.

Prize Calculations and Proceeds

Prizes and expenses are calculated from gross ticket sales. Net proceeds must be used for approved charitable purposes. The approved calculation method must be applied consistently.

Ticket Requirements

Raffle tickets must be consecutively numbered and include required information such as the organization name, licence number, ticket price, draw details, and prize descriptions.

Rules of Play Responsibility

The licensed organization is responsible for preparing and maintaining accurate Rules of Play that align with the licence. Vendors may assist technically, but compliance responsibility remains with the charity.

Unclaimed Prizes

Unclaimed prizes must be handled in accordance with licence terms and provincial guidelines, including required holding periods and redraws where applicable.

Financial Controls and Reporting

Licence holders must maintain accurate records, retain documentation for at least three years, and submit required financial reports.

Nova Scotia Raffle Compliance Matrix

Frequently Asked Questions

Are subscription-based raffles allowed in Nova Scotia?

Yes. Subscription-based raffles are permitted when the platform and subscription mechanics are reviewed and approved.

Is player information required for electronic raffles?

Yes. At a minimum, the player’s name and phone number must be collected.

Is there a cap on raffle platform fees?

Yes. Platform fees are generally capped at 15% of gross ticket sales.

Are electronic terminals available to all charities?

Terminal-based raffles are permitted, but due to fixed costs and the fee cap, they are generally viable only for larger events.

Final Clarification

Raffle platforms provide technology only. Licensing authority and compliance oversight remain with the Province of Nova Scotia through the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division.

Tap 50:50 Event Consultants Ltd. (operating as Tap5050, also commonly referred to as Tap 50:50) is a licensed electronic raffle supplier in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and PEI.