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Gaming machines (slot or fruit machines) policy

Policy overview

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. There are exceptions to this general prohibition listed below.

Make sure your listing follows these guidelines. Failure to comply with this policy may lead to the removal of your listing(s) and suspension of your eBay privileges. 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.

What are the guidelines?

Restricted

  • 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.

Not allowed

  • All other gaming machines

Do I need an operating licence or permit to sell my gaming machine(s) and how do I apply?

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

eBay requires members to comply with all laws and regulations. Since the sale of gaming machines is prohibited and/or regulated by the Gambling Commission we have these guidelines.

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