Legal Gambling in Tennessee: What's Allowed and What's Not in 2024
Gambling in Tennessee is heavily restricted, with most forms being illegal. Currently, the only legal forms of gambling in the state are the Tennessee Lottery and licensed online sports betting, which was legalized in 2019 and launched in November 2020.
Unlike many other states, Tennessee doesn't have any physical casinos, whether commercial or tribal. You won't find slot machines, table games, or poker rooms anywhere in the state. The closest casinos are located in neighboring states like Mississippi, North Carolina, and Missouri.
The Tennessee Education Lottery offers various games including:
- Powerball - Mega Millions - Tennessee Cash - Daily drawings - Scratch-off tickets
For sports betting, Tennessee uniquely operates as an online-only market. Licensed operators include:
- DraftKings - FanDuel - BetMGM - Caesars Sportsbook - Action 24/7
These platforms allow residents to bet on professional and collegiate sports through mobile apps or websites while physically located within state borders.
Horse racing and dog racing betting are prohibited in Tennessee. Additionally, social gambling, including home poker games, is illegal under state law. The state doesn't have any racetracks or off-track betting facilities.
Charity gaming is permitted but limited to annual events for qualified non-profit organizations. These events must be approved by the state and can only include specific games like raffles and cake walks.
Penalties for illegal gambling in Tennessee can be serious. Operating an illegal gambling business is a Class E felony, while simple gambling is a Class C misdemeanor.
The state's gambling landscape could change in the future, as there are occasional legislative discussions about expanding gaming options. However, as of now, Tennessee remains one of the more restrictive states regarding gambling activities.
If you're interested in gambling legally in Tennessee, your options are limited to playing the state lottery or betting on sports through licensed online sportsbooks. For traditional casino gaming, you'll need to travel to neighboring states.
Remember that gambling laws can change, and it's always best to verify current regulations through official state channels or legal professionals.