How to Hold a Raffle in Scotch Plains
Step 1: Register with the LGCCC
Every non-profit organization planning to conduct a raffle or bingo must first register with the Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission (LGCCC). Registration is valid for two years.
To complete your registration, visit: LGCCC Registration Form.
Step 2: Complete the Raffle License Application
Once registered, you must complete a raffle license application. Applications are available through:
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit your completed application at least 15 business days before the event.
Types of Raffles and Fees
OFF‐PREMISES 50/50 DRAW RAFFLE |
Raffle Tickets are sold PRIOR to the date that the winning ticket is pulled. 50% of the proceeds are awarded to the winning ticket. Sample ticket is required for this type of raffle. |
STATE FEE: |
$20 each day on which a drawing(s) is to be conducted |
Additional Fee(s): $20 for each $1,000 or part thereof in value of the awarded prize(s) in excess of $1,000 shall be forwarded to the state by check payable to the Commission together with the Report of Operations as required by N.J.A.C. 13:47‐9 |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
ON PREMISE DRAW 50/50 DRAW RAFFLE |
Raffle tickets are sold only at the event. 50% of the proceeds are awarded to the winning ticket. No sample ticket is required for this type of raffle. |
STATE FEE: |
Flat fee of $20 for each day ONLY IF ANTICIPATED PRIZE IS IN EXCESS OF $400, otherwise fee is $0 |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
Flat fee of $20 for each day ONLY IF ANTICIPATED PRIZE IS IN EXCESS OF $400, otherwise fee is $0 |
OFF PREMISE DRAW MERCHANDISE DRAW RAFFLE |
Raffle Tickets are sold PRIOR to the date that the winning ticket is pulled. The winnings are goods designated by the organization with a monetary value (NO CASH). Examples: quilt, gift basket(s), gift cards, electronics, vehicles, sporting event tickets, etc. (see list of prohibited prizes). Sample ticket is required for this type of raffle. |
STATE FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
$0-$1,000.00 = $20 $1,000.01-$2,000.00=$40 $2,000.01-$3,000.00=$60 $3,000.01-$4,000.00=$80 $4,000.01-$5,000.00=$100 Etc. |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
$0-$1,000.00 = $20 $1,000.01-$2,000.00=$40 $2,000.01-$3,000.00=$60 $3,000.01-$4,000.00=$80 $4,000.01-$5,000.00=$100 Etc. |
ON PREMISE DRAW MERCHANDISE DRAW RAFFLE |
Raffle tickets are sold only at the event. The winnings are goods designated by the organization with a monetary value (NO CASH). Examples: quilt, gift basket(s), gift cards, electronics, sporting event tickets, etc. (see list of prohibited prizes). No sample ticket is required for this type of raffle. |
STATE FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
INSTANT RAFFLE GAMES [PULL TABS] |
Pull tab tickets are much like instant lottery tickets. The object of the game is to open the perforated windows on the back of the ticket and match the symbols inside the ticket to the winning combinations on the front of the ticket. The winning pull tab ticket is turned in for a monetary prize. |
STATE FEE: |
$20.00 for each day on which instant raffle tickets are sold or offered for sale, or $750.00 for a one‐year license to sell, or to offer for sale, instant raffle tickets during that year. |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20.00 for each day on which instant raffle tickets are sold or offered for sale, or $750.00 for a one‐year license to sell, or to offer for sale, instant raffle tickets during that year. |
CALENDAR RAFFLE |
Off-premise draw raffle in which calendars bearing nonrepeating consecutive numbers are sold. A specific cash or merchandise prize is designated for each date on the calendar upon which a prize(s) is to be awarded. The winners are determined by drawing from a container, objects bearing numbers matching the non-repeating numbers on all calendars sold. A calendar raffle shall not be conducted more often than twice in any calendar year. Maximum prize amount, not to exceed $25,000. Sample ticket is required for this type of raffle. |
STATE FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
$0-$1,000.00 = $20 $1,000.01-$2,000.00=$40 $2,000.01-$3,000.00=$60 $3,000.01-$4,000.00=$80 $4,000.01-$5,000.00=$100 Etc. |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20.00 for each $1,000 or part thereof of the total retail value of the prize(s) to be awarded (sample chart provided in next column) |
$0-$1,000.00 = $20 $1,000.01-$2,000.00=$40 $2,000.01-$3,000.00=$60 $3,000.01-$4,000.00=$80 $4,000.01-$5,000.00=$100 Etc. |
CASINO NIGHT |
STATE FEE: |
$100.00 per occasion (Form 13 required) |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$100.00 per occasion |
NON-DRAW – CARNIVAL GAMES [GAME OR WHEEL OF CHANCE] |
STATE FEE: |
$20 for each game or wheel on any one day, or any series of days not exceeding six at one location. |
TOWNSHIP FEE: |
$20 for each game or wheel on any one day, or any series of days not exceeding six at one location. |
Prohibited Prizes
No licensee shall offer or award any prize consisting of:
- Real estate or any interest therein
- Bonds
- Shares of stock
- Securities or evidences of indebtedness
- Weapons
- Live animals (except a gift certificate redeemable for live, edible seafood)
- Foreign or domestic coins (except collector pieces or sets that are marketed as such and are clearly not intended for use as legal tender)
- Tobacco products
- Motor vehicle leases
- Any merchandise refundable in any of the foregoing or as money
- Cash money, unless it’s a 50/50
Off-Premises Raffle Requirements
Off‐Premises raffles require a sample ticket. Sample tickets are to be submitted on forms prescribed by the LGCCC.
OFF‐PREMISES RAFFLE AWARDING CASH OR MONEY AS A PRIZE
“Off‐premises 50‐50 raffle” means a raffle conducted by a drawing for a cash or money prize or prizes, with respect to which tickets may be sold in advance of the occasion of the drawing and the winner(s) need not be present to win, the prize or prizes equaling 50 percent of the amount received for all tickets or rights to participate.
Ticket Requirements
When tickets are sold for an off‐premise raffle awarding cash or money as a prize, each ticket shall contain at least the following information:
- Name and identification number of the qualified organization and number of the license issued for the occasion;
- Place where the occasion will be held and the date and time thereof;
- The statement: “This is a 50/50 cash raffle and the winner will receive 50 percent of the amount received for all tickets or rights to participate”;
- If the prize pool is to be divided among multiple winners, the ticket must indicate the percentage of the prize pool that each winner will receive;
- The number of the ticket;
- Price of the ticket;
- The purpose to which the entire net proceeds will be devoted; and
- The statement: “No substitution of the offered prize may be made.”
Additional Requirements
The presence of the holder of a ticket shall not be required in order to win unless the ticket bears the statement “NOT VALID UNLESS HOLDER IS PRESENT AT THE DRAWING.”
The stub of each ticket shall bear the name and address of the holder, the number of the ticket, the raffle license issued for the occasion, and the identification of the licensed organization.
CALENDAR RAFFLE
“Calendar raffle” means an off‐premises draw raffle in which calendars bearing nonrepeating consecutive numbers are sold. A specific cash or merchandise prize is designated for each date on the calendar upon which a prize(s) is to be awarded. The winners are determined by drawing from a container, objects bearing numbers matching the non‐repeating numbers on all calendars sold. Each player shall be provided with a ticket printed in a calendar format which shall clearly and conspicuously contain at least the following information:
- The name and identification number of the qualified organization and number of the license issued for the occasion;
- The place where the drawings will be held and the dates and times thereof;
- The date upon which prizes will be awarded and the retail value of each;
- The non‐repeating consecutive number of the ticket;
- The aggregate retail value of all prizes to be awarded;
- The price of the ticket;
- The purpose to which the entire net proceeds will be devoted;
- The statement: “No substitution of the offered prize may be made.”; and
- The statement: “If gambling is a problem for you or someone in your family, Dial 1‐800‐ GAMBLER.”
Additional Requirements
The presence of the holder of the ticket shall not be required in order to win unless the ticket bears the statement “NOT VALID UNLESS HOLDER IS PRESENT AT THE DRAWING.”
The stub of each ticket shall bear the name and address of the holder, the number of the ticket, the raffle license issued for the occasion, and the identification number of the licensed organization.
Raffle Frequently Asked Questions
Raffle Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I register with the Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission?
Complete an Initial Affidavit and Application for Biennial Registration, found on the NJ Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission website.
https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/lgccc/Applications/Initial-Affidavit-and-Application-for-Biennial-Registration.pdf
Definition of Terms "Qualified organization" means a bona fide organization or association of veterans, religious congregation, religious organization, charitable organization, educational organization, fraternal organization, civic and service club, officially recognized volunteer fire company, officially recognized first aid squad and officially recognized rescue squad, and senior citizens' association or club which:
- Is organized as a non-profit or religious organization and is authorized by its certificate or articles of incorporation, bylaws or other written authority to support one of the authorized purposes;
- Appoints the Executive Officer of the Control Commission as agent for the service of;
- Is constituted of not less than five individuals. (See, N.J.A.C.13:47-1.1). Political clubs and organizations are not eligible to apply for Registration.
2. Is there a list of organizations that hold a LGCCC Registration?
The LGCCC posts a comprehensive list on their website, which is updated daily.
https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/lgccc/pages/registered-Organizations.aspx
3. Where do I apply for each game of chance?
You must apply in the town where the games are to be held or the winner will be drawn. Each game must be applied for and there are no "blanket licenses."
4. Can I apply for a game of chance if my LGCCC registration has expired?
No, a copy of the valid registration must be submitted with the application. Registration must be valid through the date of the raffle in order for the application to be received by the office.
5. Does my application need to be notarized?
Yes, applications need to be submitted in quadruplicate with original signatures notarized.
6. Can I give 1 application in to have Scotch Plains make copies?
No, since the signatures and notary must be original, copies of a single application cannot be made or accepted.
7. What is the difference between On and Off Premise games of chance?
On Premise means the winner of the prize needs to be present. Off Premise means the winner of the prize does not need to be present. Sample tickets ALWAYS need to be provided if off premise.
8. When do I need to provide a Sample Ticket?
- Sample tickets need to be provided for any game of chance that is considered OFF PREMISE.
9. What needs to be on a Sample Ticket?
- NJ LGCCC Registration ID number
- Name of Organization; this must match exactly what is on the Registration Card of the Organization Card issued from the LGCCC
- Description of Prize and Value
- Location of Drawing
- Date of Drawing
- Price of Ticket
- Purpose to which proceeds will be devoted
- Space for the municipality issued Raffle License No.
- Space for the purchaser's information including but not limited to: Name, Address, Phone #
10. What fees are associated with games of chance?
See Types of Raffles and Fees or call our office. Each municipality has the right to charge different amounts. The State LGCCC charges different amounts based on the game and anticipated prizes.
11. How long do I need to hand in the application in order for my raffle to be accepted?
Scotch Plains requests that applications are submitted at least fifteen (15) business days prior to a game of chance's date of operation. This allows for the following: a police background check and the NJ LGCCC review and approval of a raffle. If a holiday, unexpected closing, etc. occurs in this time, this timeline may be extended. It is important to get the application in as early as possible so that if an error is present, it can be corrected without affecting the date of the raffle.
12. My application was rejected, who do I speak to?
The municipality where you applied can be contacted to assist in correcting an application. The denial of an application always comes from the State. The State has the ultimate deciding power on whether an application is approved. The rejection letter from the State will have a contact phone # listed.
13. What is the Report of Operations?
The report of operations is a form that needs to be completed and submitted to the State. The form may require additional fees based on the value of the prizes or the proceeds raised. Must be submitted to the STATE no later than the 15th day of the calendar month following the date of the licensed activity.
14. Can I change the date of my game?
Yes, an application to amend a raffle license must be completed.
https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/lgccc/Applications/Application-to-Amend-Bingo-or-Raffle-License.pdf
15. What is a SILENT AUCTION?
Silent auction is a variant of the English auction in which bids are written on a sheet of paper. At the predetermined end of the auction, the highest listed bidder wins the item. This auction is often used in charity events, with many items auctioned simultaneously and "closed" at a common finish time. The auction is "silent" in that there is no auctioneer selling individual items, the bidders writing their bids on a bidding sheet often left on a table near the item. At charity auctions, bid sheets usually have a fixed starting amount, predetermined bid increments, and a "guaranteed bid" amount which works the same as a "buy now" amount. Other variations of this type of auction may include sealed bids. The highest bidder pays the price he or she submitted. These auctions do not require a raffle license since there is no charge to play.
Common Reasons Raffles are Denied
Sample Ticket Not Provided |
Sample tickets are required when the winner of the prize does NOT NEED TO BE PRESENT at the time of the drawing and ALWAYS for Off Premise raffles. |
Sample Ticket Filled Out Incorrectly |
Sample tickets must have the following:
- Name and identification number of the qualified organization and number of the license issued for the occasion;
- Place where the occasion will be held and the date and time thereof;
- The statement: "This is a 50/50 cash raffle and the winner will receive 50 percent of the amount received for all tickets or rights to participate";
- If the prize pool is to be divided among multiple winners, the ticket must indicate the percentage of the prize pool that each winner will receive;
- The number of the ticket;
- Price of the ticket;
- The purpose to which the entire net proceeds will be devoted; and
- The statement: "No substitution of the offered prize may be made."
The presence of the holder of a ticket shall not be required in order to win unless the ticket bears the statement "NOT VALID UNLESS HOLDER IS PRESENT AT THE DRAWING."
The stub of each ticket shall bear the name and address of the holder, the number of the ticket, the raffle license issued for the occasion, and the identification of the licensed organization.
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Incorrect Sample Ticket Used |
Sample tickets must be altered depending on the type of game of chance being hosted.
Sample of Off Premise 50/50 Cash: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/lgccc/Applications/Off-Premises-50-50-Raffle-Awarding-Cash-as-a-Prize.pdf
Sample of Off Premise Merchandise: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/lgccc/Applications/Off-Premises-Draw-Raffle-Awarding-Merchandise-as-a-Prize.pdf
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Raffle Report of Operations Not Completed |
If you held a prior raffle and did not complete the Report of Operations or completed it improperly. Raffle Reports of Operation are due by the 15th of the calendar month after the date of the raffle. This report must be completed in its entirety. The form must be notarized. Off premise games must have a printer's certificate and a sample ticket. Additional fees when required.
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Proper Fees Not Included With Raffle Report of Operations |
Some games will incur fees based on the amount. These fees will need to be included with the report of operations otherwise future games will be denied.
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Name of Registered Organization Does Not Match Application or Sample Ticket |
The name on the Biennial Registration Card provided by the NJ LGCCC is the only way the organization name should be listed on the application or sample ticket. Any deviation will lead to a denial.
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Incorrect Fees |
Please make sure to check the fee listing included in this packet to ensure you are including the correct fees with your application.
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