Is Gambling Legal in Chicago? Law Guide & Regulations 2024
Yes, gambling is legal in Chicago, but with specific regulations and restrictions. I'll break down the current gambling landscape in Chicago to give you a clear picture.
Casino gambling became legal in Chicago through the 2019 Illinois Gambling Expansion Bill. This legislation allowed for the construction of Chicago's first casino resort, which is set to be the Bally's Chicago Casino in River West, expected to open in 2026.
Currently, while the main casino is under construction, you can legally gamble at:
Video gaming terminals in licensed establishments Illinois State Lottery retailers Off-track betting facilities Rivers Casino in nearby Des Plaines
The types of legal gambling in Chicago include:
Slot machines Table games (at licensed casinos) Sports betting (both retail and online) Lottery games Horse race betting Video gaming terminals
It's important to note that there are age restrictions - you must be 21 or older to gamble at casinos or place sports bets, and 18 or older for lottery games.
Online gambling in Chicago follows Illinois state law, which permits:
Online sports betting through licensed operators Horse race betting through approved platforms Online lottery sales
However, online casino games and poker remain illegal in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
For sports betting, you must be physically located within Illinois state borders when placing bets, which is verified through geolocation technology.
The Illinois Gaming Board strictly regulates all gambling activities in Chicago. They enforce:
Licensing requirements for operators Consumer protection measures Problem gambling prevention programs Tax collection on gambling revenue
If you're planning to gamble in Chicago, always ensure you're using licensed and regulated venues or platforms. Illegal gambling operations do exist but participating in them can result in criminal charges.
The gambling landscape in Chicago continues to evolve, with the upcoming Bally's casino expected to significantly impact the local gambling scene. For the most current information, you can check the Illinois Gaming Board's website or consult with local authorities.
Remember to gamble responsibly and be aware that while gambling is legal, it comes with risks and should be approached with caution.