Gambling Machine Exploitation License

Dutch gambling machine regulation involves two distinct permits. The exploitation license (exploitatievergunning) is issued by the Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, KSA) and authorizes a company to operate gaming machines as a business. This is separate from the presence permit (aanwezigheidsvergunning), which is issued by the municipality and authorizes the physical placement of gaming machines at a specific location.

Venue owners who want gaming machines in their establishment need the municipal presence permit, while the operator supplying the machines needs the KSA exploitation license. The rules distinguish between high-threshold venues like cafes and bars (where some machines are allowed) and low-threshold venues like snack bars (where stricter limits apply). Both permits must be in order before machines may be placed.