Lottery License

Organizing a lottery or raffle where participants pay for a chance to win requires a license under the State Gambling Treaty (GlüStV). The state gambling authority (Glücksspielaufsichtsbehörde) issues permits for both commercial and charitable lotteries. The application must detail the prize structure, ticket pricing, draw procedure, and intended use of proceeds.

Important distinction: free promotional prize draws (Gewinnspiele) where no purchase or payment is required to participate are not classified as gambling under the GlüStV and do not need a license. Only lotteries and raffles involving paid participation fall under gambling regulation. For large-scale lotteries operating across multiple states, a coordination procedure among state authorities applies.