Maryland Charitable Gaming Laws

§ 12-106. Raffles

(a) Charitable organization. —
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, Subtitle 2 of this title, or Title 13 of this article and except as otherwise provided in this subsection, a bona fide charitable organization in this State may conduct a raffle for the exclusive benefit of the charitable organization if the prize awarded is real property:
(i) to which the charitable organization holds title; or
(ii) for which the charitable organization has the ability to convey title.
(2) A charitable organization may not conduct more than two raffles of real property in a calendar year.
(3) The Secretary of State may adopt regulations governing a raffle of real property by a charitable organization under this subsection.
(b) Political committee or candidate for public office. —
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article and except as otherwise provided in this subsection, a political committee or candidate for public office may conduct a raffle if the prizes awarded are money or merchandise.
(2)
(i) The cost of a raffle ticket under this subsection may not exceed $ 5.
(ii) An individual may not purchase more than $ 50 worth of tickets.
(3) This subsection does not relieve a political committee or candidate from the reporting and record keeping requirements under the Election Law Article.
(c) Savings promotion raffle by depository institutions. — Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a depository institution, as defined in § 1-211 of the Financial Institutions Article, may conduct a savings promotion raffle under § 1-211 of the Financial Institutions Article.
Note: Charitable gaming laws differ by city or county in Maryland.

Scroll down to see the full text of the applicable laws for the following counties:
Anne Arundel County
Baltimore City
Baltimore County
Calvert County
Carroll County
Cecil County
Charles County county
Dorchester County
Frederick County
Garrett County
Harford County
Howard County
Kent County
Montgomery County
Montgomery County Fair
Prince George’s County
Queen Anne’s County
St. Mary’s County
Somerset County
Washington County
Worcester County

Anne Arundel County

§ 13-405. Raffles

In general

(a) A bona fide fraternal, civic, war veterans’, or charitable organization, or a volunteer fire company may conduct a raffle in the county for the benefit of charity if:

(1) the raffle is conducted to further the purposes of the organization; and

(2) no individual or group of individuals financially benefits from the holding of the raffle or receives any of the proceeds from the raffle for personal use.

Award of prizes

(b) Prizes may be awarded by the use of paddle wheels, wheels of fortune, or chance books.

§ 13-407. Bingo

“Bingo ” defined

(a) In this section, “bingo” includes the game of instant bingo.

Qualified organizations authorized

(b) A bona fide religious, fraternal, or charitable organization, or a volunteer fire company operating in a community that does not have a paid fire department, may conduct bingo in the county:

(1) for the benefit of charity in the county; or

(2) to further the purposes of the organization.

Baltimore City

§ 13-505. Raffles

Limitation on prizes

(a) A permit holder may award prizes in merchandise and money in a raffle in any amount.

Limitation on number

(b) A permit holder may not conduct more than 12 raffles in a calendar year.

§ 13-507. Bingo–In general

Scope of section and § 13-509

(a) This section and § 13-509 of this subtitle also apply to games of instant bingo.

Permit required

(b) Before an organization listed in subsection (c) or (d) of this section may conduct bingo in Baltimore City, the organization shall obtain a permit to do so from the commissioner.

Qualified organizations

(c) An organization that meets the conditions of subsection (i)(1) of this section may conduct bingo in Baltimore City if the organization is a bona fide:

(1) religious organization;

(2) fraternal organization;

(3) patriotic organization;

(4) educational organization; or

(5) charitable organization.

Organizations–Alternative qualifications

(d) An organization that meets the conditions of subsection (i)(2) of this section may conduct bingo in Baltimore City if the organization is:

(1) devoted exclusively to religious, charitable, or educational purposes;

(2) a service organization;

(3) a fraternal organization; or

(4) a veterans’ organization.

Application

(e)(1) Before the commissioner may issue a permit, the commissioner shall review the character of the organization applying for the permit to ascertain that the organization meets the requirements of this section.

(2) The organization applying for the permit shall pay the permit fee set in subsection (g) of this section.

(3) An application for a permit and the action taken by the commissioner on that application are public records.

Permit

(f) The commissioner may issue a permit for:

(1) 1 day; or

(2) a period exceeding 1 day and not exceeding 12 months.

Permit fees

(g) Except as allowed under subsection (h)(1) of this section, the commissioner shall collect from each permit holder, to cover the costs of administering the Baltimore City bingo laws, a permit fee not exceeding:

(1) $10 for each day on which bingo may be conducted;

(2) $750 for a 3-month period; or

(3) $3,000 for a 12-month period.

Special annual permit

(h)(1) The commissioner may collect a special annual permit fee of $5 for a nonprofit organization or nonprofit corporation to conduct, over 1 year, a number of bingo games for which, for each game:

(i) the value of any prize of merchandise or money is not more than $5; and

(ii) not more than 100 individuals play.

(2) The commissioner may revoke a special annual permit for cause.

Limitations

(i)(1) An organization conducting bingo in Baltimore City under subsection (c) of this section:

(i) except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, may not offer or award, in any game:

1. a money prize of more than $45; or

2. a prize of merchandise worth more than $45; and

(ii) after reimbursing any costs incurred in conducting bingo for personnel, supplies, equipment, and other expenses, shall use the entire proceeds for:

1. charitable purposes; or

2. to further the purposes of an organization listed in subsection (c) of this section.

(2) An organization conducting bingo in Baltimore City under subsection (d) of this section:

(i) may not use the net proceeds to benefit a stockholder or member of the organization;

(ii) after reimbursing any costs incurred in conducting bingo for personnel, supplies, equipment, and other expenses, shall use the net proceeds:

1. solely for charitable purposes; or

2. to further the purposes of an organization listed in subsection (d) of this section; and

(iii) shall limit prizes of money or merchandise to a value not exceeding:

1. $5,000 for the total of all prizes;

2. $75 for the total of all door prizes;

3. $45 for each of not more than five early bird games;

4. $75 for each of not more than 19 regular games;

5. $150 for the starting prize of one regular game with a jackpot, with nightly increases not exceeding $75 and a consolation prize not exceeding $75;

6. $150 for each of not more than four regular special games;

7. 50% of the proceeds for each of not more than four split-the-pot games;

8. 100% of the proceeds for not more than one winner-take-all game;

9. $3,000 for a jackpot game which starts at 50 numbers and adds one number every second night;

10. if the jackpot is not won, $375 for a consolation prize for any jackpot game;

11. $300 for the first jackpot game in a buildup jackpot game which starts at $300 and 50 numbers and adds one number and $75 each night; and

12. if the jackpot is not won, $225 for the consolation prize for any buildup jackpot game.

(3) A bingo permit holder issued a permit under either subsection (c) or (d) of this section may not conduct bingo:

(i) in a restaurant or tavern where alcoholic beverages are sold;

(ii) in a permanent place of amusement or entertainment; or

(iii) on Sunday, except by a bona fide religious organization that conducts bingo on property owned or leased by the organization.

§ 13-508. Bingo–Social club

Notwithstanding § 13-507 of this subtitle, an organization may conduct bingo if:

(1) the membership of the organization consists only of individuals who are at least 60 years old;

(2) the organization was formed primarily for social purposes;

(3) all proceeds of the games of bingo are used only to further the purposes of the organization; and

(4) the organization complies with the permit procedures and conditions imposed under § 13-507 of this subtitle

§ 13-509. Bingo–Regulations

The commissioner may adopt regulations reasonably necessary to administer § 13-507 of this subtitle.

Baltimore County

§ 13-606. Bingo

License required

(a) Before an organization may conduct bingo in the county, the organization shall obtain a bingo license from the Department of Permits and Development Management.

Qualified organizations

(b) An organization may conduct bingo to benefit charity in the county or to further its purposes if the organization is:

(1) a tax-supported volunteer fire company or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with a tax-supported volunteer fire company;

(2) a nationally chartered veterans’ organization or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with a nationally chartered veterans’ organization;

(3) a bona fide religious group that has conducted religious services at a fixed location in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a bingo license;

(4) the Maryland State Fair and Agricultural Society;

(5) a bona fide fraternal organization;

(6) a bona fide patriotic organization; or

(7) a bona fide charitable organization that has been located at a fixed location in the county for 3 years before applying for a bingo license.

Application

(c)(1) An applicant for a bingo license shall apply for a license on the application form that the Department of Permits and Development Management provides.

(2) The application shall include:

(i) the name of the applicant;

(ii) the name and address of each officer and director of the applicant;

(iii) a complete statement of the purposes of the applicant;

(iv) a statement of the purpose for which the proceeds of the bingo operation will be used;

(v) an affidavit that an agreement does not exist to divide any part of the proceeds of the bingo operation with any other person that is made by:

1. the president;

2. the treasurer;

3. the chief executive; or

4. a fiscal officer;

(vi) an affidavit that only the applicant or a member of the applicant will receive any of the proceeds of the bingo operation except to further the purposes of the applicant organization; and

(vii) any other information the Department of Permits and Development Management requires.

License

(d)(1)(i) An annual bingo license issued by the Department of Permits and Development Management authorizes the license holder to conduct bingo at the fixed location stated on the license:

1. at any time during the year for which the license is issued; but

2. not more often than twice each week in the year for which the license is issued.

(ii) An applicant for an annual license shall pay the fee that the Department of Permits and Development Management sets.

(2)(i) A temporary license issued by the Department of Permits and Development Management authorizes the license holder to conduct bingo at the fixed location stated on the license for not more than 10 days in the year for which the license is issued.

(ii) An applicant for a temporary license shall pay the fee that the administrative officer of the county sets.

(3)(i) A 1-day license issued by the Department of Permits and Development Management authorizes the license holder to conduct bingo at a fixed location stated on the license for not more than 1 day in the year for which the license is issued.

(ii) An applicant for a 1-day license shall pay a fee that the administrative officer of the county sets.

(iii) The Department of Permits and Development Management may not grant an applicant more than three 1-day licenses in any calendar year.

Conditions and limitations

(e)(1) The Department of Permits and Development Management may require the holder of a bingo license to produce its financial records for inspection so that the Department may ensure that the license holder and the members of the license holder have complied with subsection (c)(2)(v) and (vi) of this section.

(2) A person may not conduct bingo on Sunday.

Proceeds of license

(f) The Department of Permits and Development Management shall deposit the fees paid for bingo licenses issued under this section in the county Widows’ Pension Fund.

Revocation of license

(g) After a public hearing, the Department of Permits and Development Management may revoke the license of a license holder that fails to comply with this section or the regulations that the Department adopts under this section.

Adoption of regulations

(h) The Department of Permits and Development Management may adopt regulations to govern:

(1) the conduct of bingo;

(2) the amounts of the prizes that may be awarded in a game of bingo;

(3) the method of awarding prizes;

(4) the hours that bingo may be conducted; and

(5) any other matters related to the proper conduct of bingo.

Penalties

(i)(1)(i) A person may not divert or pay any proceeds of bingo conducted under a bingo license to:

1. any other person, except to a member of the license holder; or

2. any other partnership or corporation, except to further the purposes of the license holder.

(ii) A person who is not a member of a license holder may not receive any of the proceeds of bingo conducted under a bingo license except to further the purposes of the license holder.

(iii) A person may not violate a regulation that the Department of Permits and Development Management adopts under subsection (h) of this section.

(2) A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

Calvert County

§ 13-705. Bingo–Commercial

Instant bingo

(a) For purposes of this section, a game of instant bingo conducted under a Class NG beach license is considered to be bingo.

License required

(b) Before a person may conduct bingo in the county, the person shall obtain a license from the county commissioners.

Qualifications

(c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a person who complies with this section may conduct bingo in the county.

Application

(d)(1)(i) The county commissioners may not issue a license unless the application was filed at least 30 days before the date of issuance.

(ii) An applicant for a license shall:

1. file an application on a form that the county commissioners provide; and

2. sign the application under oath.

(iii) The application shall include:

1. the name of the applicant;

2. the address of the applicant;

3. any trade name of the applicant;

4. if the applicant is a partnership, the name and address of each partner;

5. if the applicant is a corporation, the name and address of each officer of the corporation;

6. if a resident agent is required under paragraph (3) of this subsection, the name and address of the applicant’s resident agent;

7. the name and address of any person having a financial interest in the operation of the proposed bingo; and

8. the signatures of all of the individuals listed in items 1 through 7 of this subparagraph indicating consent to individual liability for any unlawful operation of licensed bingo.

(iv)1. The county commissioners may refuse to issue a license based on the facts disclosed on an application.

2. Subparagraph (i) of this paragraph does not require the county commissioners to investigate an applicant’s statements on the application before issuing a license.

(2) Each applicant for a license shall present evidence to the county commissioners that the applicant has obtained a public liability insurance policy that:

(i) covers the period covered by the proposed license;

(ii) provides coverage for personal injury to:

1. any bingo patron in an amount not less than $100,000; and

2. more than one bingo patron in an amount not less than $500,000.

(3)(i) Each nonresident applicant for a license shall designate a resident agent.

(ii) A resident agent must be:

1. a voter in the county;

2. a taxpayer of the county; and

3. an owner of property in the county assessed at not less than $25,000.

License

(e)(1) The county commissioners may issue the following licenses:

(i) a Class NA license, for bingo that does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 750 individuals;

(ii) a Class NB license, for bingo that does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 500 individuals;

(iii) a Class NC license, for bingo that does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 1,000 individuals;

(iv) a Class ND beach license, for bingo that:

1. does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 500 individuals;

2. may be operated within the town limits of North Beach or Chesapeake Beach; and

3. may be operated between May 1 and September 30;

(v) a Class NE beach license, for bingo that:

1. does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 1,000 individuals;

2. may be operated within the town limits of North Beach or Chesapeake Beach; and

3. may be operated between May 1 and September 30;

(vi) a Class NF beach license, for bingo that:

1. does not exceed a seating or player capacity of 500 individuals;

2. may be operated within the town limits of North Beach or Chesapeake Beach; and

3. may be operated throughout the year; or

(vii) a Class NG beach license, for bingo that:

1. does not have a limitation on seating or player capacity;

2. may be operated within the town limits of North Beach or Chesapeake Beach; and

3. may be operated throughout the year.

(2) The county commissioners shall:

(i) retain a copy of each license issued;

(ii) issue a copy of the license to the license holder; and

(iii) forward a copy of the license to the State Comptroller.

(3) A license is not transferable.

Fees

(f) The county commissioners shall assess the following annual license fees:

(1) $3,500 for a Class NA license;

(2) $3,000 for a Class NB license;

(3) $4,000 for a Class NC license;

(4) $500 for a Class ND beach license;

(5) $1,000 for a Class NE beach license;

(6) $3,000 for a Class NF beach license; and

(7) $5,000 for a Class NG beach license.

Limitations

(g)(1) The county commissioners may not issue a license if the conduct of bingo would:

(i) unduly disturb the peace of the neighborhood in which the applicant proposes to conduct bingo;

(ii) create a nuisance; or

(iii) be detrimental to the health or welfare of the community.

(2)(i) The county commissioners may not issue a license to conduct bingo in a building that is not permanent and covered by a roof.

(ii) This paragraph does not apply to a person who is not required to obtain a license to conduct bingo.

(3)(i) The following licenses may not allow the conduct of bingo on Sunday:

1. a Class NA license;

2. a Class NB license; or

3. a Class NC license.

(ii) The following licenses may not allow the conduct of bingo before 1 p.m. on Sunday:

1. a Class ND beach license;

2. a Class NE beach license; or

3. a Class NF beach license.

(iii) A Class NG beach license may not allow the conduct of bingo between 2 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday.

§ 13-706. Bingo–Exempt organizations

The following organizations are not required to obtain a license under § 13- 705 of this subtitle to conduct bingo:

(1) a religious organization;

(2) a patriotic organization;

(3) an educational organization;

(4) a charitable or benevolent organization;

(5) a civic organization;

(6) a volunteer fire company; or

(7) any other organization that is authorized under § 13-703 of this subtitle and Subtitle 2 of this title to conduct bingo in the county.

§ 13-707. Bingo–Prizes

Form

(a) A license holder may issue as a prize or award to the patron of licensed bingo:

(1) merchandise;

(2) money;

(3) a token or ticket redeemable for money or merchandise; or

(4) any other thing of value.

Limitations

(b)(1) Except as provided under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, a license holder may not issue for one game a prize or award with a value exceeding $100.

(2) A holder of a Class NG beach license may issue for one game a prize with a value exceeding $100.

(3) A license holder may issue once each day:

(i) a grand prize not exceeding $1,500; and

(ii) a grand prize not exceeding $3,000 in retail value.

§ 13-708. Bingo–Revocation of license

In addition to any other penalty provided by law, the county commissioners may revoke a bingo license forthwith if:

(1) the county commissioners determine after an investigation that:

(i) the license holder made a false statement in the application for the license; or

(ii) the conduct of licensed bingo at the premises named in the license would:

1. disturb the peace of the neighborhood;

2. create a nuisance; or

3. be detrimental to the morals, health, or welfare of the community; or

(2) the license holder is convicted of:

(i) violating §§ 13-705 through 13-707 of this subtitle; or

(ii) a felony.

Carroll County

§ 13-904. Raffles

Definitions

(a)(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Multi-drawing raffle ” means a raffle for which the drawings are held on more than 1 day.

(3) “Raffle ” means one or more drawings using a single series of chances sold in chance books or similar devices, at which one or more prizes are awarded.

(4) “Single-drawing raffle ” means a raffle for which the drawings are held on a single day.

Chance books

(b) At a gaming event, the holder of a raffle may award a prize of money or merchandise using a chance book.

Prizes

(c)(1) A single-drawing raffle may have only one major prize.

(2) During a year, an organization listed in § 13-903 of this subtitle may hold not more than:

(i) six single-drawing raffles in which the major prize is worth $2,500 or more; or

(ii) ten single-drawing raffles in which the major prize is worth less than $2,500.

(3) An organization listed in § 13-903 of this subtitle may not hold:

(i) more than 30 weekly drawings in a multi-drawing raffle;

(ii) more than two multi-drawing raffles during a year; or

(iii) a multi-drawing raffle in which the major prize is worth more than $1,100.

§ 13-907. Bingo

(a) Permit required.- Before an organization may conduct bingo under this subtitle, the organization shall obtain a permit from the county commissioners.

(b) Qualified organizations.-
(1) In this subsection, “qualified organization” means a bona fide:
(i) religious organization;
(ii) fraternal organization;
(iii) patriotic organization;
(iv) educational organization;
(v) charitable organization;
(vi) volunteer fire company; or
(vii) senior center site council.

(2) A qualified organization may conduct bingo in the county to benefit charity or to further the purpose of the qualified organization.

(c) Senior citizen site council games.-
(1) A senior center site council may obtain a permit to conduct bingo in a senior center 5 days per week, excluding Sunday.
(2) A senior center site council may not:
(i) award a prize of money to a winner exceeding $50 in each session; or
(ii) charge more than 5 cents for each bingo card.
(3) All money that remains after prizes are awarded shall be distributed to the senior center site council.

(d) Permit.-
(1) An applicant for a permit shall pay the fee that the county commissioners set.
(2) The county commissioners shall set the permit fee at a level sufficient to cover the costs of issuing the permit.

(e) Limitations.-
(1) Only the holder of a permit issued under this section may conduct bingo authorized by the permit.
(2) The holder of a permit issued under this section may not transfer or assign the right to conduct bingo to another person.

§ 13-908. Bingo–Prizes

Money prizes

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section and § 13- 907(c)(2)(i) of this subtitle, a permit holder may not award a money prize greater than:

(1) $100 to a player of a regular bingo game; or

(2) $250 to a player of a special bingo game, such as a build-up or progressive pot game, split-the-pot game, or winner-take-all game.

Jackpots

(b) A permit holder may award a jackpot not exceeding $1,000 if the jackpot is directly connected with the playing of bingo.

Cecil County

§ 13-1003. Gaming events and bingo

A qualified organization may conduct bingo or a gaming event for the exclusive benefit of any qualified organization if an individual or group of individuals does not:

(1) benefit financially; or

(2) receive proceeds of the bingo or gaming event for personal use or benefit.

§ 13-1005. Management of gaming event or bingo

The bingo or gaming event shall be managed personally by members of the qualified organization conducting the event.

Charles County

§ 13-1105. Bingo and gaming events generally prohibited

Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, a person may not conduct bingo or a gaming event in the county.

§ 13-1109. Bingo

In general

(a) A fundraising organization or educational organization may conduct bingo either for the benefit of charity in the county or to further the purposes of the organization.

Form of prize

(b) Subject to subsection (c) of this section, a fundraising organization or educational organization may award money or merchandise as a prize in a bingo game.

Prize limits

(c)(1) A fundraising organization or educational organization may not award a money prize exceeding $5,000 to any player in a bingo game.

(2) A fundraising organization or educational organization may not award more than $10,000 in total money prizes in a single day.

Time limits

(d) A fundraising organization or educational organization may not conduct bingo at one location for more than 4 hours per day for:

(1) 4 days in a 7-day period; or

(2) 3 consecutive days.

§ 13-1110. Management of bingo and gaming events

A fundraising organization or educational organization may only allow its representatives to manage or operate bingo or gaming devices at its bingo or gaming event.

Dorchester County

§ 13-1203. Bingo

License required

(a) A person must have a license for each day that the person conducts bingo unless the bingo is conducted in a licensed gaming event.

Issued by clerk

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle or Subtitle 2 of this title, in addition to bingo conducted in connection with a gaming event under Subtitle 2 of this title, the clerk of the circuit court of the county may issue a license to conduct bingo.

Qualified organizations

(c) To qualify for a license to conduct bingo, an applicant shall be a:

(1) bona fide religious group that has conducted religious services at a fixed location in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a license;

(2) tax-supported volunteer fire company or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the fire company;

(3) nationally chartered veterans’ organization or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the organization; or

(4) nonprofit organization that:

(i) intends to raise money for an exclusively charitable, athletic, or educational purpose that is described in the application for a license; and

(ii) has operated in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a license.

Application for license

(d) An application for a license to conduct bingo shall contain a certification, by a principal officer of the applicant, stating:

(1) the time and place of the activities for which the license is sought;

(2) that the bingo will be conducted and managed solely and personally by the regular members of the applicant without the assistance of gaming professionals; and

(3) that no compensation or reward will be paid to any person for conducting or assisting in the conducting of the bingo.

Frederick County

§ 13-1306. Bingo–Generally

Permit required

(a) A person authorized to conduct bingo under this subtitle shall obtain a bingo permit from the county agency designated by the county commissioners to issue a bingo permit.

Qualified organizations

(b) Any of the following organizations, if a legal resident of the county, may conduct bingo to benefit charity in the county or to further the purposes of one of the following organizations:

(1) a bona fide:

(i) religious organization;

(ii) fraternal organization;

(iii) patriotic organization;

(iv) educational organization;

(v) civic organization;

(vi) war veterans’ organization;

(vii) hospital;

(viii) amateur athletic organization; or

(ix) charitable organization;

(2) a volunteer:

(i) fire company;

(ii) rescue company; or

(iii) ambulance company; or

(3) an auxiliary for a volunteer:

(i) fire company;

(ii) rescue company; or

(iii) ambulance company.

Unqualified persons

(c)(1) A person who is not a legal resident of Frederick County may not conduct bingo.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, each year the Frederick County Agricultural Association may sell or lease a right or concession to any person to conduct bingo at the Frederick County Fair.

Application

(d)(1) To qualify for a bingo permit, a person shall meet the requirements set by the county commissioners.

(2) The county commissioners may require an applicant for a bingo permit to pay a permit fee set by the county commissioners.

Prize limitations

(e) A person who conducts bingo may not offer or award:

(1) a prize or award with a fair market value exceeding $5,000; or

(2) a money prize exceeding $5,000.

Regulations

(f) The county commissioners may adopt regulations to carry out this section.

Garrett County

§ 13-1405. Bingo

Permit required

(a) A person authorized to conduct bingo under subsection (b) of this section shall obtain a bingo permit from the county agency designated by the County Commissioners to issue a bingo permit.

Qualified organizations

(b) An organization may conduct bingo for its own benefit or to benefit charity in the county if the organization is a legal resident of the county and is:

(1) a bona fide:

(i) religious organization;

(ii) fraternal organization;

(iii) civic organization;

(iv) war veterans’ organization;

(v) hospital;

(vi) amateur athletic organization;

(vii) patriotic organization;

(viii) educational organization; or

(ix) charitable organization;

(2) a county volunteer fire department or rescue squad; or

(3) an auxiliary for a county volunteer fire department or rescue squad.

Operation by county residents only

(c) A person who is not a legal resident of the county may not conduct bingo.

Qualified persons

(d) To qualify for a bingo permit, a person shall meet the requirements set by the county.

Operation by members of qualified organizations only

(e) Only members of an organization listed under subsection (b) of this section may conduct and operate bingo games.

Harford County

§ 13-1504. Bingo

Limitations

(1) The sheriff may not issue to a single organization in 1 calendar year more than 52 bingo licenses.
(2) Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, not more than one bingo license may be issued to a single organization in a single calendar week.
(3) A license to conduct bingo is valid:
(i) for 24 consecutive hours; or
(ii) if the license is issued for use in conjunction with and at a carnival, during carnival hours, and for the shorter of the duration of the carnival or 14 consecutive days.

(b) Prize.- A money prize for a bingo game may not exceed:
(1) $500; or
(2) $1,000 for a jackpot.

(c) Instant bingo – Location.- An instant bingo game may be sold and played only at the location listed on the license.

(d) Prize – Minors prohibited.- A minor may not sell or play instant bingo.

(e) Paddle wheel license as authorization to conduct bingo.- A license to operate a paddle wheel shall also operate as a license to conduct bingo, if authorized by the sheriff on request.

§ 13-1505. Members-only instant bingo

Duration of license

(a) A members-only instant bingo license is valid for 3 months.

Limitation

(b) The sheriff may not issue to a single organization in 1 calendar year more than four licenses for members-only instant bingo.

Prize

(c) A money prize for a members-only instant bingo game may not exceed $50.

Location

(d) A members-only instant bingo game may be sold and played only at the location listed on the license.

§ 13-1506. Raffles

Limitations

(a)(1) The sheriff may not issue to a single organization in 1 calendar year more than 12 raffle licenses, no more than one of which may be for a raffle with a money prize exceeding $1,000.

(2) All raffle drawings shall be conducted in 1 calendar day.

(3) A raffle license is valid until all raffles are drawn.

(4) A raffle license shall state the day for the drawing or drawings.

Prizes

(b) A money prize for a raffle may not exceed:

(1) $10,000 if the sponsoring organization has not held a raffle for a money prize exceeding $1,000 in the current calendar year; or

(2) $1,000 if the sponsoring organization has held a raffle for a money prize exceeding $1,000 in the current calendar year.

Security required

(c) An organization that intends to conduct a raffle for a money prize exceeding $1,000 shall:

(1) post a bond in the amount of the money prize; or

(2) obtain an irrevocable letter of credit from a bank in the amount of the money prize.

Howard County

§ 13-1602. Bingo

Qualified organizations

(a) Any of the following organizations may conduct bingo to benefit charity in the county or to further the purposes of the organization:

(1) a bona fide:

(i) religious organization;

(ii) fraternal organization;

(iii) patriotic organization;

(iv) educational organization; or

(v) charitable organization; or

(2) a volunteer fire company.

Operation by county residents only

(b) A person who is not a legal resident of the county may not conduct bingo in the county, even if the game is for the benefit of an organization listed in subsection (a) of this section.

Kent County

§ 13-1703. Gaming–Eligible organizations

Permit required

(a) The county commissioners may issue a permit to an organization specified in subsection (c) of this section to use two or more of the following gaming devices in conducting a fundraiser at which a prize of merchandise or money may be awarded:

(1) a paddle wheel;

(2) a wheel of fortune;

(3) a chance book;

(4) a card game;

(5) a raffle; or

(6) any other gaming device.

Exception

(b) Unless conducted at an event requiring a permit under subsection (a) of this section, a raffle is not a multiple gaming device regulated under this section.

Qualified organizations

(c)(1) In this subsection, “charity ” means an organization, institution, association, society, or corporation that is exempt from taxation under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(2) The county commissioners may issue a permit to use multiple gaming devices to:

(i) a bona fide religious organization that has conducted religious services at the same location in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a permit;

(ii) a county-supported or municipally supported volunteer fire company or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the volunteer fire company or auxiliary unit;

(iii) a nationally chartered veterans’ organization or an auxiliary unit whose members are directly associated with the veterans’ organization;

(iv) for the purpose of conducting a fundraiser for the benefit of a charity located in the county, a bona fide:

1. fraternal organization;

2. educational organization;

3. civic organization;

4. patriotic organization; or

5. charitable organization; or

(v) a bona fide nonprofit organization that:

1. has operated on a nonprofit basis in the county for at least 3 years before applying for a permit; and

2. intends to use the multiple gaming devices to raise money for an exclusively charitable, athletic, or educational purpose specifically described in the permit application.

Application

(d) Before issuing a permit, the county commissioners shall determine that the organization seeking the permit:

(1) is organized in and serves the residents of the county; and

(2) meets the conditions of this subtitle.

Permit

(e)(1)(i) Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a permit is valid for one event that does not last longer than 6 hours.

(ii) The county commissioners may issue a permit for an event longer than 6 hours if the permit holder does not seek more than one permit in the same year.

(2) The county commissioners may not approve a permit for gaming events to be held on premises that are licensed under a Class B or Class D alcoholic beverages license.

(3) The county commissioners may not issue more than two permits to an organization in a single year.

(4) The county commissioners may:

(i) charge a fee set by resolution for each permit;

(ii) set the number of permits that may be issued each year; and

(iii) adopt regulations governing permit applications and the issuance of permits.

Limitations

(f)(1) An organization that is issued a permit shall conduct its fundraiser in a:

(i) structure that the organization owns, leases, or occupies;

(ii) structure that any organization that would qualify for a permit owns, leases, or occupies; or

(iii) public location that is:

1. described in the permit application; and

2. approved by the State’s Attorney for the county.

(2)(i) Unless the county commissioners grant a waiver, only a resident of the county may manage and operate a fundraiser for which a permit is issued on behalf of the permit holder.

(ii) Each permit holder shall designate an individual to be responsible for compliance with the terms and conditions of this subtitle and a permit issued under this subtitle.

(iii) A person may not be compensated for operating the gaming activity conducted under a permit.

Financial accounting

(g)(1) The permit holder shall use at least one-half of the funds raised using the permit for civic, charitable, or educational purposes.

(2) Within 30 days after a fundraiser, the permit holder shall send to the county commissioners:

(i) an accounting of all funds received or pledged;

(ii) an accounting of all expenses paid or incurred; and

(iii) a statement under oath of the application of the net profits.

Disqualification

(h) The county commissioners may deny a permit for not more than 3 years to an organization that violates this subtitle or regulations adopted under this subtitle.

§ 13-1704. Raffles

In general

(a) The county commissioners may issue a raffle permit to an organization that qualifies for a permit under this subtitle or under regulations that the county commissioners adopt.

Duration of permit

(b) The holder of a raffle permit must award the last prize in the raffle within 1 year after the date that the permit for the raffle is issued.

Limitation on number

(c) The county commissioners may regulate the number of raffle permits that an organization may be issued in 1 year.

§ 13-1705. Bingo

To benefit charity in the county or to further the purposes of an organization qualified to conduct bingo under this section, an organization may conduct bingo if the organization is a bona fide:

(1) religious organization;

(2) fraternal organization;

(3) war veterans’ organization;

(4) charitable organization; or

(5) volunteer fire company operating in a community that does not have a paid fire department.

Montgomery County

§ 13-1803. Bingo–In general

Authorized

(a)(1) A qualified organization may conduct bingo in the county to benefit charity or to further the purpose of the qualified organization.

(2) Bingo shall be conducted only by the qualified organization and not by a person who:

(i) retains a portion of the proceeds from the bingo game; or

(ii) is compensated by the qualified organization for which the bingo is held.

(3) A person may not receive a private profit from the proceeds of bingo.

(4) A qualified organization that conducts bingo shall:

(i) keep accurate records of all transactions that occur on behalf of the bingo game;

(ii) keep the records for 2 years after the bingo game; and

(iii) on request, make the records available for examination by:

1. the State’s Attorney for the county;

2. the county sheriff;

3. the county Department of Health and Human Services;

4. the county attorney;

5. the Department of State Police; or

6. a designated officer or agent of any of those units.

(5) A person conducting bingo shall be a resident of the county and a member of the qualified organization.

(6) Alcoholic beverages may not be sold or consumed in the room in which bingo is conducted, either during a game or an intermission between games.

(7) Money prizes not exceeding $1,000 in each game may be awarded in bingo.

(8) The qualified organization may sell breakout tickets in the room in which bingo is conducted, either during a game or an intermission between games.

Montgomery County Fair

(b)(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, a person may conduct bingo at the annual Montgomery County Fair for the benefit of the Montgomery County Agricultural Center, Inc.

(2) A person who conducts bingo under this subsection may award only noncash prizes.

§ 13-1804. Bingo–License required

A qualified organization that conducts bingo in the county shall be licensed by the county under this subtitle.

§ 13-1805. Bingo–Qualification of applicants

A qualified organization that conducts bingo in the county shall be located in the county.

§ 13-1806. Bingo–License application

In general

(a) A qualified organization that intends to conduct bingo shall submit a bingo license application on a form that the county provides.

Contents

(b) A qualified organization shall disclose the following information on the license application:

(1) the name of the qualified organization, and the names and addresses of its officers and directors;

(2) a complete statement of the purposes and objectives of the qualified organization and the purposes for which the qualified organization will use the proceeds from the bingo;

(3) a statement under oath by the president and treasurer, or the chief executive and fiscal officer, of the qualified organization that:

(i) an agreement does not exist to divert any of the proceeds of the bingo to another person; and

(ii) another person will not receive any of the proceeds of the bingo except to further the purpose of the qualified organization; and

(4) any additional information that the county requires.

§ 13-1807. Bingo–License issuance

The county may issue an annual bingo license authorizing the holder to conduct bingo at a specified fixed location:

(1) at any time during the year for which the license is issued; but

(2) not to exceed twice in any 1 week.

§ 13-1808. Bingo–Temporary license

In general

(a) The county may issue:

(1) one temporary 10-day bingo license to each applicant each calendar year at a fee determined by the county; or

(2) a 1-day bingo license at a fee determined by the county, not to exceed three 1-day licenses to each applicant each calendar year, authorizing the holder to conduct bingo at a specified fixed location for 1 day.

Limitation

(b) A temporary 10-day bingo license authorizes the holder to conduct bingo at a specified fixed location for a maximum of 10 days in any 1 year.

§ 13-1809. Bingo–Administrative provisions

In general

(a) The county shall:

(1) adopt regulations for the conduct of bingo;

(2) establish license fees, based on the administrative cost of regulating bingo and issuing each class of license; and

(3) establish the hours of operation for bingo.

Disqualification of licensee

(b) After a public hearing, the county may revoke a bingo license for failure of the holder to comply with this subtitle or regulations adopted under this subtitle.

§ 13-1810. Raffles–In general

Authorized

(a) A qualified organization may conduct a raffle in the county to benefit charity or to further the purpose of the qualified organization.

Conducted by qualified organization

(b) A raffle shall be conducted by a qualified organization and not by a person who:

(1) retains a portion of the proceeds from the raffle; or

(2) is compensated by the qualified organization for which the raffle is held.

Private profit prohibited

(c) A person may not receive a private profit from the proceeds of a raffle.

Record keeping

(d) A qualified organization that conducts a raffle shall:

(1) keep accurate records of all transactions that occur on behalf of the raffle;

(2) keep the records for 2 years after the raffle; and

(3) on request, make the records available for examination by:

(i) the State’s Attorney for the county;

(ii) the county sheriff;

(iii) the county Department of Health and Human Services;

(iv) the county attorney;

(v) the Department of State Police; or

(vi) a designated officer or agent of any of those units.

Residency requirement

(e) A person operating a raffle shall be a resident of the county and a member of the qualified organization.

Prize–Money or merchandise

(f) Prizes of money or merchandise may be awarded in a raffle conducted under this subtitle.

Prize–Real property

(g) For a raffle of real property, the requirements of this section are in addition to the requirements of § 12-106(a) of this article.

Limitation on number of raffles yearly; exception

(h)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a qualified organization may not conduct more than 12 raffles each year.

(2) There is no limit to the number of 50/50 raffles that a qualified organization may conduct if the prize for each 50/50 raffle does not exceed $300.

§ 13-1811. Raffles–Permit required; exception

Permit required

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a qualified organization that intends to conduct a raffle in the county shall obtain a permit from the county.

Exception

(b) A permit is not required to conduct a 50/50 raffle.

§ 13-1812. Raffles–Qualification of applicants

A qualified organization that conducts a raffle in the county shall be located in the county.

§ 13-1813. Raffles–Permit application

In general

(a) A qualified organization shall apply for a raffle permit on a form that the county provides.

Contents

(b) A qualified organization shall disclose the following information on the permit application:

(1) the name of the qualified organization, and the names and addresses of its officers and directors;

(2) a complete statement of the purposes and objectives of the qualified organization, and the purposes for which the qualified organization will use the proceeds from the raffle;

(3) a statement under oath by the president and treasurer, or the chief executive and fiscal officer, of the qualified organization that:

(i) an agreement does not exist to divert any of the proceeds of the raffle to another; and

(ii) another person will not receive any of the proceeds of the raffle except to further the purpose of the qualified organization;

(4) in the case of a raffle of real property, under § 12-106(a) of this article, a copy of the disclosure statement filed with the Secretary of State; and

(5) any additional information that the county requires.

§ 13-1814. Raffles–Administrative provisions

The county:

(1) may adopt regulations necessary for the conduct of a raffle; and

(2) after a public hearing, may revoke the permit of a holder for failure to comply with this subtitle or regulations adopted under this subtitle.

§ 13-1815. Prohibited act; penalty

A person who violates this subtitle or a regulation adopted by the county under this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine of $1,000 or both.

Prince George’s County

§ 13-1908. Raffles

Authorized

(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, a qualified organization may conduct a raffle.

Use of proceeds

(b)(1) The proceeds of a raffle:

(i) shall benefit the qualified organization; and

(ii) shall be used for the purposes of the qualified organization.

(2) Except for a bona fide raffle winner, an individual or group may not:

(i) benefit financially from the holding of a raffle; or

(ii) receive or be paid any proceeds from a raffle for personal use or benefit.

§ 13-1909. Raffles–Operation

A raffle shall be personally conducted and managed only by regular members of the qualified organization.

§ 13-1910. Raffles–Permit required

In general

(a) A qualified organization shall obtain a written permit from the Department of Environmental Resources before conducting a raffle if the total cash value of the prize exceeds $200.

Qualifications

(b)(1) Before issuing a permit, the Department of Environmental Resources shall ascertain the character of the qualified organization applying for a permit under this section to determine if the application complies with this subtitle.

(2) A permit issued to a qualified organization to conduct a raffle may not be transferred.

Fee

(c) The permit fee for each raffle is $15.

§ 13-1911. Raffles–Form of prizes

A qualified organization conducting a raffle may award prizes in money not exceeding a total of $5,000 and in merchandise in any amount or the merchandise cash equivalent.

§ 13-1912. Casino night

“Casino night” defined

(a) In this section:

(1) “casino night” means a benefit performance at which:

(i) a card game, wheel of chance, or roulette is played; and

(ii) money winnings or tokens redeemable in money are awarded as prizes; but

(2) “casino night” does not include a benefit performance at which the only form of gaming is a wheel of fortune, big wheel, or other wheel of chance.

Prohibited

(b)(1) This subtitle and Subtitle 2 of this title do not authorize casino nights in the county.

(2) A person may not conduct a casino night in the county.

Penalty

(c) A person who violates this section or a county ordinance enacted under this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

Queen Anne’s County

§ 13-2004. Raffles

In general

(a) The county commissioners may issue a raffle permit to an organization that qualifies for a permit under § 13-2003 of this subtitle or under regulations that the county commissioners adopt.

Duration of permit

(b) The holder of a raffle permit must award the last prize in the raffle within 1 year after the date that the permit for the raffle is issued.

Limitation on number

(c) The county commissioners may regulate the number of raffle permits that an organization may be issued in 1 year.

§ 13-2005. Bingo

To benefit charity in the county or to further its purposes, an entity may conduct bingo if the entity is a bona fide:

(1) religious organization;

(2) fraternal organization;

(3) charitable organization; or

(4) volunteer fire company operating in a community that does not have a paid fire department.

St. Mary’s County

§ 13-2103. Bingo–License required

A qualified organization must have a bingo license whenever the qualified organization conducts bingo.

§ 13-2104. Bingo–Qualified organizations

To be eligible for a bingo license, an organization must be:

(1) a bona fide religious group that has conducted religious services at a fixed location in the county for at least 3 years before the application date;

(2) a volunteer fire company or volunteer rescue squad, regardless of whether the company or squad is supported by tax revenues, or an auxiliary unit whose members are associated directly with the company or squad;

(3) a nationally chartered veterans’ organization, or an auxiliary unit whose members are associated directly with the organization; or

(4) a nonprofit organization that:

(i) has operated in the county for at least 3 years before the application date; and

(ii) intends to raise money for an exclusively charitable, athletic, or educational purpose specifically described in the application.

§ 13-2105. Bingo–License application

Submission to sheriff

(a) An organization shall submit an application for a bingo license to the sheriff.

Contents

(b) A principal officer of the organization shall certify in the application for a bingo license:

(1) the name and address of the organization;

(2) the name and address of the officer seeking the license for the organization;

(3) that the officer is authorized by the organization to file the application;

(4) the time and place of bingo;

(5) that, within 15 days after the last day named in the application for the license to conduct bingo, a principal officer of the organization will file under penalties of perjury the report required by § 13-2109 of this subtitle;

(6) that bingo will be conducted solely and personally by the regular members of the organization, without the assistance of gaming professionals; and

(7) that no compensation or reward will be paid to a person for conducting or assisting in conducting bingo.

§ 13-2106. Bingo–License fee

Established by county commissioners

(a) By resolution, the county commissioners may establish a bingo license fee schedule based on criteria that the county commissioners consider appropriate.

Charged by sheriff

(b) The sheriff shall charge for each license the annual license fee that the county commissioners set by resolution.

Deposit

(c) A resolution adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall specify the fund in which the license fees are to be deposited.

§ 13-2107. Bingo–Right to license

The sheriff shall issue a numbered license to an organization that meets the requirements of §§ 13-2103 through 13-2110 of this subtitle to conduct bingo and award prizes.

§ 13-2108. Bingo–License term

A license issued under this subtitle is valid for 1 year.

§ 13-2109. Bingo–Report

Within 15 days after the last day authorized for bingo in the license, a principal officer of the organization shall file a report under penalties of perjury that certifies:

(1) that the regular members of the organization personally conducted bingo at the time and place stated in the application without the assistance of gaming professionals;

(2) the disposition of the cash proceeds of the bingo; and

(3) that the organization did not pay a premises rental fee to:

(i) itself;

(ii) its trustees;

(iii) a committee of the organization; or

(iv) any organization whose members are the same, or substantially the same, as the licensed organization

§ 13-2110. Bingo–Disqualification

An organization is disqualified from obtaining a license under this subtitle for 1 year if the organization fails to:

(1) file the report required under § 13-2109 of this subtitle; or

(2) comply with §§ 13-2103 through 13-2110 of this subtitle.

Somerset County

§ 13-2202. Bingo

To benefit charity in the county or to further the purposes of an organization qualified to conduct bingo under this section, an organization may conduct bingo if the organization is a bona fide:

(1) religious organization;

(2) fraternal organization;

(3) war veterans’ organization;

(4) charitable organization; or

(5) volunteer fire company operating in a community that does not have a paid fire department.

Washington County

Part II. Bingo

§ 13-2407. Effect of part

Bingo may be conducted in accordance with Part II of this subtitle.

§ 13-2408. Bingo–In general

Permit required

(a) Before a person may conduct bingo, the person shall obtain a bingo permit from the county commissioners.

Review by county commissioners

(b)(1) Before issuing a bingo permit, the county commissioners shall ascertain:

(i) the purpose of the bingo game; and

(ii) the intended use of receipts from bingo.

(2) The county commissioners may not issue a new bingo permit for bingo that is to be conducted for profit

§ 13-2409. Permit fee

Scope of section

(a) This section does not apply to a nonprofit organization seeking a bingo permit.

Fee

(b) The county commissioners may charge an annual fee not exceeding $5,000 for a bingo permit.

§ 13-2410. Prize limitation

A person may not give or offer in a single bingo game:

(1) a money prize exceeding $1,000;

(2) a merchandise prize exceeding a value of $1,000; or

(3) a prize of money and merchandise with a combined value exceeding $1,000.

§ 13-2411. Prohibited act; penalty

In general

(a) A person may not conduct bingo in violation of Part II of this subtitle.

Penalty

(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

Series of violations

(c) Each day that a violation occurs is a separate violation.

Worcester County

§ 13-2605. “Board” defined

In this part, “board” means the Worcester County Bingo Board.

§ 13-2606. Qualified organizations

The following organizations may conduct bingo in accordance with this part:

(1) a bona fide religious organization that has conducted religious services at a fixed location in the county for at least 6 years before applying for a license under this part;

(2) a municipal corporation in the county;

(3) a volunteer fire company in the county;

(4) a local unit of a nationwide bona fide nonprofit organization or club that consists solely of members who served in the armed forces of the United States; or

(5) a nonprofit organization that:

(i) intends to raise money for an exclusively charitable or educational purpose that is specifically described in the license application filed with the board; and

(ii) has operated as a nonprofit organization in the county for at least 5 years before applying for a license under this part.

§ 13-2607. Worcester County Bingo Board

Established

(a) There is a Worcester County Bingo Board.

Composition

(b) The board consists of three members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.

Qualifications of members

(c) Each member of the board shall:

(1) be a registered voter of the county; and

(2) be an owner of real property according to the assessment records of the county.

Salaries and expenses

(d)(1) Each member of the board is entitled to:

(i) an annual salary of at least $1,000 as determined by the county commissioners; and

(ii) a reasonable travel and expense allowance.

(2) The county commissioners shall pay the cost of the payments made under paragraph (1) of this subsection and all administrative expenses of the board from the proceeds paid to the county commissioners under this part.

Tenure; vacancies

(e)(1) The term of a member is 6 years and begins on June 1.

(2) The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the board on October 1, 2002.

(3) The Governor shall fill any vacancy on the board occurring during the term of an appointed member for the unexpired term with the advice and consent of the Senate.

§ 13-2608. Powers and duties of board–Regulations

Adoption authorized

(a) The board may adopt reasonable regulations to administer and enforce this part.

Copy

(b) A copy of the regulations adopted by the board shall be made available at a reasonable cost.

§ 13-2609. Powers and duties of board–Supervision of bingo; right of entry

Duty to supervise

(a)(1) The board shall exercise control and supervision over all games of bingo to ensure that the games are conducted fairly in accordance with the provisions of the licenses issued under § 13-2610 of this subtitle, the regulations adopted by the board, and this part.

(2) The board shall prevent bingo from being conducted for a commercial purpose, for private profit, or in any manner other than as provided in this part.

Right of entry

(b) For purposes of inspection, the board, its officers, and its agents may enter at any time any place where:

(1) bingo is being or will be conducted; or

(2) any equipment that is being or will be used to conduct bingo is located.

§ 13-2610. License to conduct bingo

Required

(a) Required.- An organization or municipal corporation described in ß 13-2606 of this subtitle that intends to conduct bingo under this part must obtain:
(1) an annual license to conduct bingo for more than 15 days in a year; or
(2) a temporary license to conduct bingo for 15 days or fewer in a year.

(b) Application.-
(1) An applicant for a license shall submit to the board an application on the form that the board by regulation requires.
(2) The application form shall require:
(i) the name of the applicant;
(ii) the name of each principal officer of the applicant; and
(iii) a certification that no person will conduct bingo except a person who:
1. is a salaried employee or bona fide member of the applicant; and
2. shall not receive any form of commission or bonus.

(c) Fees.-
(1) An applicant shall pay to the board a license fee of:
(i) $100 for an annual license; or
(ii) $25 in addition to $5 for each day bingo is conducted for a temporary license.
(2) The board shall pay to the county commissioners all license fees collected under this part.

(d) Issuance.- The board shall issue a license to each applicant who meets the requirements of this part and the regulations adopted under this part.

(e) Approval of lease required.- If an applicant conducts bingo on premises that are leased by the applicant, the lease agreement must be approved by the board before a license may be issued.

(f) Revocation or suspension.- The board may deny a license to an applicant or suspend or revoke a license if the applicant or licensee has violated this part or any regulation adopted under this part.

§ 13-2611. Conditions and limitations on conduct of bingo games

(a) Admission charge.- The charge for admission to a place in order to participate in bingo conducted under this part may not exceed $5.

(b) Prize.-
(1) Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the value of a prize in money, merchandise, or services for any one game of bingo conducted under this part may not exceed $200.
(2) Jackpot prizes may be offered in a maximum amount of $5,000.
(3) “Winner Take All” games may be offered without a prize limit.

(c) Employees conducting bingo.- A licensee’s employees and the terms of their employment must be approved by the board before they may conduct bingo under this part.

(d) Minors prohibited.- A minor may not be allowed to participate in bingo conducted under this part.

(e) Location.- Bingo may not be conducted under this part in a room or area where alcoholic beverages are sold or served during the game.

(f) Number of days.- A licensee under this part may not conduct bingo on more than 125 days in a year.

§ 13-2612. Advertisements

Limitation

Unless otherwise prohibited by county or municipal law, all forms of advertising for bingo are allowed.

Exceptions

(b)(1) Unless otherwise prohibited by county or municipal law, one sign not exceeding 36 square feet, stating that bingo will be conducted, may be displayed on or adjacent to the premises where bingo will be conducted.

(2) In accordance with regulations adopted under § 13-2608 of this subtitle, notice that bingo will be conducted may be posted on a bulletin board or included on a poster inside a hotel, motel, restaurant, or store that is located in the election district in which the game will be conducted.

§ 13-2613. Accounting

Statement of receipts and expenses required

(a) Each licensee under this part shall submit to the board, at monthly intervals or at any other interval that the board sets, a statement of its gross receipts and expenses.

Contents

(b) For each game of bingo conducted by the licensee, the statement shall include:

(1) the amount of gross receipts derived from the game;

(2) each item of expense incurred in the conduct of the game;

(3) each item of expenditure made in connection with the game; and

(4) the net profit derived from the conduct of the game.

§ 13-2614. Distribution and use of proceeds

Payment to county commissioners

(a)(1) Each licensee shall pay to the county commissioners 3% of the gross receipts derived from bingo for each day that bingo is conducted by the licensee under this part.

(2) The licensee shall pay the money at the time the licensee submits to the board the statement required under § 13-2613 of this subtitle.

Nonprofit organizations

(b)(1) An organization described in § 13-2606(5) of this subtitle may retain up to one-half of the proceeds derived from bingo conducted under this part for the benefit of the organization.

(2) The organization shall distribute any remaining proceeds for educational or charitable purposes.

Payment to municipal corporation

(c) If bingo is conducted in a municipal corporation in the county, the county commissioners shall pay one-third of the 3% of the gross receipts received under subsection (a) of this section to the municipal corporation, to be used for its general purposes.

Use of proceeds by county commissioners

(d)(1) From the percentage of the gross receipts retained by the county commissioners, the county commissioners shall first pay the expenses necessary to administer this part.

(2) All additional funds shall be credited by the county commissioners to the general funds of the county.

§ 13-2615. Books and reports

Licensees

(a) Each licensee under this part shall maintain the books and reports that the board requires for the purposes of this part.

Board

(b) The board shall submit to the county commissioners a detailed annual report of all statements submitted to the board.

§ 13-2616. Prohibited acts; penalties

Violations by licensees

(a)(1) A licensee may not:

(i) divert or pay out any of the proceeds of bingo conducted under this part in any manner other than as required by this part or by the regulations adopted under this part; or

(ii) violate any other provision of this part.

(2) A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500 for each violation.

Wrongful receipt of proceeds

(b)(1) A person may not receive any of the proceeds of bingo conducted under this part except for the purposes provided in this part.

(2) A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.