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Information for arcade operators

The Gambling Act 2005 came into force on 1 September 2007.

Premise licence categories

  • Adult Gaming Centres (AGC) are able to offer four Category B3 gaming machines and an unlimited number of Category C and D gaming machines.  These centres are strictly for over 18's and children are not allowed in any part of the premises.
  • Licensed Family Entertainment Centres (FEC) are able to offer unlimited numbers of Category C and D machines.  Children will be allowed to enter the premises and gamble on Category D machines.  Any Category C machines must be located in over-18 areas only.
  • Unlicensed family entertainment centres (Unlicensed FEC) Unlicensed FEC's are able to offer an unlimited number of Category D gaming machines.  Children have free access and they can gamble on Category D machines.

Operating licences

New adult gaming centre operators and family entertainment centre operators must apply to the Gambling Commision in the first instance for an operators licence. You may or may not need personal licence holders depending on the size of your business. The Gambling Commission has issued its own guidance on the application procedures and what you need to submit with your application.

Personal licences

The Gambling Commission has also issued separate guidance on who in your business requires a personal licence. If you haven't already done so, you should apply for your operating and personal licences to the Gambling Commission as soon as possible. We can not determine your application for a premises licence until you have applied to the Gambling Commission for these.

Contact details

For further information and guidance please contact our licensing team.