As the sale and ownership of slot machines is restricted by some state laws, it's important to follow our guidelines.
What is the policy?
- Where a current licence or permit has been issued to the seller by the Gambling Commission. The holder of a current licence or permit must clearly state that they are licensed by the Gambling Commission and prominently display their licence or permit number at the top of the individual listing
- Where there is no opportunity to win a prize (for example: machines that are non functional). Sellers should note that removing or disconnecting a component(s) of a functional gaming machine in order to sell it on eBay does not render the machine non-functional for the purpose of this exemption
- If you collect gaming machines as a private individual and you want to sell, supply, repair, install or maintain a single machine you need a single machine permit from the Gambling Commission
Additional Information
The sale, supply, installation, adaption, maintenance and repair of a gaming machine (also known as fruit or slot machine) is prohibited unless the appropriate licence or permit has first been obtained from the Gambling Commission. Under the Gambling Act 2005, a gaming machine is defined as a machine which is designed or adapted for use by individuals to gamble (whether or not it can also be used for other purposes). Therefore, eBay will generally not permit the listing of gaming machines on the site.
The Gambling Commission publishes details of operators who have applied for licences and those that have been granted an operating licence. You can search for details of operators whose licences have been granted and applicants for a licence using the link below. Whilst an application is pending the Gambling Commission give applicants the opportunity to ask for confidentiality if there are good reasons. As a result it may not provide comprehensive details of every application the Gambling Commission has received. Use the operator search to find licensees.
Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn’t, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.
The Gambling Commission may also investigate you for offences under the Gambling Act 2005 relating to the sale and supply of gaming machines. eBay cooperates with law enforcement agencies including the Gambling Commission and will assist any agency investigating the illegal sale of gaming (slot/fruit) machines upon verified request.
Tip
Visit Seller Help - opens in new window or tab to find details of any policy issues with your account or listings, and get the information you need to quickly resolve them.
Why does eBay have this policy?
This policy helps sellers and buyers follow important government regulations relating to the sale of slot machines.