RAFFLE LICENSES
Georgia law §16-12-22.1 requires any entity performing a raffle to obtain a license from the Sheriff’s Office of the county in which the nonprofit tax-exempt organization is located. Fundraising raffles are considered games of chance and are tightly regulated by the State of Georgia. The Sheriff's Office is charged with enforcing Georgia's Raffle laws.
Operating a raffle without a license or failing to meet the requirements of the statute is a violation of Georgia law and subject to prosecution. Operating without a license is committing the offense of commercial gambling as defined by Georgia Code §16-12-22. Conviction is considered a felony and may be punishable by imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than five years and/or a fine not to exceed $20,000. Any person violating the permit/operational requirements may be found guilty of a high and aggravated misdemeanor. A second conviction of such an act would be considered a felony and subject to imprisonment of not less than one year nor more than five and/or a fine not to exceed $10,000.
Where do I send the application?
Henry County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Raffle License
120 Henry Pkwy
McDonough, GA 30253
FAX to 770-288-7119
(Please include your telephone number to be notified that your permit is ready.)
If you have further questions, contact Donna Nawrocki at
770-288-7124.
Who can obtain a raffle license?
The only organizations permitted to operate a raffle are tax-exempt churches, schools, civic organizations, or other related support groups; nonprofit organizations qualified under §501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code; or bona fide nonprofit organizations approved by the Sheriff.
What are the requirements?
- A completed application
- 24 months minimum qualification for tax-exempt organization
- Determination letters certifying your tax-exemption status provided from the Internal Revenue Service and the Georgia Department of Revenue
- Lease or rental agreement provided where the raffle is being conducted if leased or rented
Raffle permits expires at midnight on 31 December following the granting of the license.