close up of lottery number balls

You can apply for a lottery licence in the Township of West Lincoln if you belong to a charitable or religious organization. The Government of Ontario and the Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regulate lottery licences in Ontario.

Apply for a lottery licence

To apply for a lottery licence, please contact the Clerk's department at 905-957-3346 or visit us at 318 Canborough Street in Smithville between 9:00 am and 4:30 pm from Monday to Friday. Applications may also be downloaded from the AGCO website.

What is a lottery?

A lottery is defined as any arrangement that has a prize, a chance to win a prize and a fee to enter. The Township of West Lincoln has the authority to issue licences for most lottery events including:

  • Bingo events with prize boards up to $5,500
  • Raffles with prize boards up to $50,000
  • Break Open/Nevada ticket events within the municipality
  • Bazaar gaming events
  • Media bingo

Lottery licence eligibility

Canada's Criminal Code allows charitable and religious organizations to conduct a lottery scheme to raise funds once a licence is issued. Organizations must have a demonstrated charitable or religious mandate that provide programs for relief of poverty, advancement of education, advancement of religion or other charitable purposes beneficial to the community.

To be eligible for a lottery licence, your organization must meet the following criteria:

  • Your organization must be in existence for at least one year.
  • Your organization must have a place of business in Ontario.
  • Your organization must demonstrate that they provide charitable services and the proceeds will benefit Ontario residents.

Frequently asked questions

What are the eligibility requirements for a first-time applicant?

The first time that your organization applies for any type of lottery licence, you will be required to provide the following information and documents with your application form:

• A copy of your letter patent

• A copy of your constitution and by-laws

• A copy of your budget for the current year

• A copy of your financial statements for the preceding year

• A list of your Board of Directors

What are the terms and conditions for each lottery licence scheme?

The terms, conditions and requirements for each lottery licence scheme is provided in the AGCO's Lottery Licence Policies.

What is the cost of a lottery licence?

The cost of a lottery licence is 3% of the total prize value. For prizes donated, a market value must be provided for the prize(s).

Who can I contact for more information?

Please contact the Township of West Lincoln Clerk's Department at 905-957-3346.