Vermont maintains a conservative approach to gambling, with a limited range of legal gaming options available to its residents. Unlike many other states, Vermont does not have any commercial or tribal casinos.

The state’s gambling activities are primarily limited to charitable gaming and a state-operated lottery. Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, is a popular fundraising method for non-profit organizations and community groups. These activities are regulated to ensure that they benefit charitable causes and comply with state laws.

The Vermont Lottery, which has been operational since 1978, offers residents the chance to participate in various games, including scratch-off tickets and multi-state lottery draws like Powerball and Mega Millions. This lottery is a significant legal avenue for gambling and generates considerable revenue for the state, which is used to fund educational programs.

Despite these available options, gambling in Vermont remains quite restricted compared to other states. The absence of tribal or commercial casinos and the current prohibition on sports betting makes Vermont less of a destination for those seeking a broad range of gambling experiences. In contrast, neighboring states like New York and New Hampshire have legalized casino gaming and sports betting, offering more comprehensive gambling opportunities.

Types of Gambling in Vermont

Vermont permits a limited selection of gambling activities under state law, offering residents and visitors a few options to participate in legal gaming. The most prominent form of gambling in Vermont is the state lottery.

Established in 1978, the Vermont Lottery offers various games, including scratch-off tickets, daily draws, and participation in multi-state games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Lottery revenues contribute to the state’s general fund, with a significant portion allocated to support public education initiatives. The Vermont Lottery Commission oversees the operation and regulation of lottery activities, ensuring fair play and integrity.

Charitable gaming is also legal in Vermont, providing another form of regulated gambling. Non-profit organizations can conduct bingo, raffles, and other similar games to raise funds for charitable purposes. These activities must be licensed and adhere to state regulations, ensuring that proceeds are used for approved charitable causes.

Charitable gaming is popular among community groups and organizations, offering a way to support local causes while providing entertainment. However, unlike some states, Vermont does not allow electronic gaming machines, slot machines, or table games, keeping its gambling options limited to these traditional formats.

Horse Racing/Off-Track Betting

Historically, horse racing and pari-mutuel betting were once popular in Vermont, but these activities have largely disappeared from the state’s gambling scene. There are currently no operational racetracks in Vermont, and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing is not actively pursued.

While state laws do not specifically prohibit horse racing, the lack of facilities and interest has led to the decline of this form of gambling. Off-track betting (OTB) facilities are also not available in Vermont, meaning that residents must look to neighboring states if they wish to participate in horse racing betting.

Casinos

Vermont does not have any commercial or tribal casinos within its borders. The state’s constitution and laws do not currently allow for the establishment of casinos, making it one of the few states in the U.S. without any casino gambling options.

As a result, residents who wish to gamble at casinos often travel to neighboring states like New York, Massachusetts, where commercial and tribal casinos are operational. The absence of casinos in Vermont reflects the state’s cautious stance on expanding gambling options and the preference to maintain a more conservative approach to gaming.

Charitable Gaming

Charitable gaming is a legally sanctioned form of gambling in Vermont, encompassing activities such as bingo, raffles, and pull-tabs. These games are typically conducted by non-profit organizations to raise funds for charitable, educational, or community purposes. Vermont law requires organizations to obtain a license for these activities, ensuring that they operate transparently and in compliance with state regulations.

Bingo events are especially popular and can be found in various community centers and halls across the state. Raffles are also common, often used by schools, churches, and community groups to support fundraising efforts.

State Lottery

The Vermont Lottery is a key component of the state’s legal gambling framework. Since its inception in 1978, the lottery has offered a variety of games to residents, including instant win scratch-offs, daily draw games, and participation in multi-state lotteries such as Powerball and Mega Millions.

The Vermont Lottery Commission regulates these activities, ensuring that games are conducted fairly and that proceeds are used to benefit the state’s general fund, primarily supporting public education. The lottery is a popular form of gambling among Vermont residents, with ticket sales contributing millions of dollars in revenue each year.

Poker Rooms

There are no commercial poker rooms in Vermont, and poker is not widely available as a legal gambling activity. While informal poker games may occur in private settings, they are generally not permitted to involve any form of profit-making, such as charging rake or entry fees.

This restriction aligns with Vermont’s broader conservative approach to gambling, focusing on minimizing the potential for unregulated or illegal gaming activities. As such, poker enthusiasts often travel to nearby states where legal poker rooms and casinos offer both cash games and tournaments.

Sports Betting

Sports betting is now legal in Vermont. In June 2023, Vermont joined the growing list of states that have legalized sports wagering. By January 2024, online sports betting platforms launched in the state, offering Vermont residents access to legal, regulated sports betting markets. While sports betting is now accessible via computers and mobile devices, wagering on in-state college sports or minor league teams is prohibited.

The three sportsbooks operating in Vermont—DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics—provide competitive odds, a variety of sports, and customer-friendly betting experiences. The legal age for betting is 21, and bettors must be physically present in Vermont to place a bet.

Gambling Laws and Regulations in Vermont

Vermont’s gambling laws are designed to maintain a controlled and limited gaming environment, prioritizing consumer protection and social responsibility.

Legal Gambling Activities

• State Lottery: The Vermont Lottery offers various games, including scratch-offs, daily draws, and multi-state jackpot games. The lottery is regulated by the Vermont Lottery Commission, which ensures that games are conducted fairly and that proceeds support state programs.
  
  
• Charitable Gaming: Bingo, raffles, and similar games are permitted when conducted by licensed charitable organizations. These activities must comply with state regulations, ensuring that proceeds are directed towards approved charitable purposes.

Illegal Gambling Activities

Vermont prohibits most forms of gambling that are not explicitly authorized by state law. This includes commercial casinos, online gambling, sports betting, and unlicensed poker games. Engaging in unauthorized gambling activities can result in legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The state actively monitors and enforces its gambling laws to prevent illegal gaming operations and protect the public from fraud.

Regulatory Bodies

• Vermont Lottery Commission: Oversees the operation and regulation of the state lottery, ensuring fair play and transparency.
  
  
• Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery: Regulates charitable gaming activities, ensuring that licensed events comply with state laws and that proceeds benefit charitable causes.

Penalties for Illegal Gambling

Violating Vermont’s gambling laws carries severe penalties designed to discourage unauthorized gaming activities and protect the public. Individuals caught operating illegal gambling businesses, such as unlicensed poker rooms or underground sports betting rings, can face significant fines and imprisonment.

The penalties are particularly harsh for those running organized illegal gambling operations, which could result in felony charges. Even participants in illegal gambling activities, such as placing bets with unlicensed bookmakers or playing in unregulated poker games, can face misdemeanor charges. These legal actions reflect the state’s strict stance on unauthorized gambling, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Vermont’s gambling laws.

In addition to fines and potential imprisonment, those found guilty of illegal gambling may also face the forfeiture of gambling equipment and any proceeds derived from these activities. This could include the seizure of slot machines, betting slips, electronic devices, or cash obtained through illegal gaming.

Vermont’s law enforcement agencies, including local police and the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, are actively involved in monitoring and investigating illegal gambling activities. They work closely with other regulatory bodies to identify violations, conduct raids, and prosecute offenders. This coordinated approach ensures that the state’s gambling laws are enforced effectively, maintaining a legal and fair gaming environment.

Popular Sports to Bet on in Vermont (If Legalized)

If sports betting were to become legal in Vermont, there would likely be significant interest due to the state’s active sports culture and its proximity to major sports teams in neighboring states. Although Vermont does not have professional sports teams of its own, the state’s residents are known for their passion for regional and collegiate sports, which could create a robust market for sports betting.

• Football: Vermont residents often support nearby NFL teams like the New England Patriots and the New York Giants, both of which have substantial followings in the state.
  
  
• Basketball: The University of Vermont’s basketball team, known as the Catamounts, has a loyal fan base, particularly during the NCAA basketball season and March Madness. Additionally, nearby NBA teams such as the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks would likely attract attention from bettors, making basketball a prominent sport for potential wagering.
  
  
• Hockey: With a strong tradition of ice hockey, Vermont residents might be keen to bet on the University of Vermont’s hockey team, as well as professional teams like the Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens. The state’s deep appreciation for the sport suggests that hockey betting could become popular if legalized.
  
  
• Baseball: Baseball fans in Vermont commonly support the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees, given the state’s geographical proximity to these teams. Major League Baseball (MLB) betting could see significant interest during the regular season and playoffs, tapping into the longstanding rivalry and passion these teams inspire.
  
  
• Other Sports: In addition to these mainstream sports, events such as golf tournaments, tennis matches, and auto racing (NASCAR) could draw betting interest. Vermont’s outdoor-oriented lifestyle may also encourage betting on events like the Tour de France or other competitive cycling events.

Local Casinos in Vermont

Unlike some other states, Vermont does not have any commercial or tribal casinos within its borders. This absence reflects the state’s cautious approach to gambling, focusing primarily on the state lottery and charitable gaming rather than allowing casino operations.

Residents interested in casino gaming often travel to nearby states, such as New York or Massachusetts, where commercial casinos offer a variety of gaming options, including slots, table games, and poker. The lack of local casinos has limited Vermont’s direct engagement in the casino gaming industry but has also helped maintain a more controlled and conservative gambling environment.

Gaming Experience in Vermont

Due to the lack of casinos, Vermont’s gaming experience is more limited compared to states with a robust casino presence. However, the state lottery provides residents with a legal and accessible form of gambling, offering various games, including scratch-offs, daily draw games, and multi-state jackpots like Powerball and Mega Millions.

Charitable gaming events such as bingo and raffles also contribute to Vermont’s gambling landscape, supporting community organizations and nonprofit causes. These activities offer a more community-oriented gaming experience, in contrast to the commercial focus seen in states with larger gambling industries.

Future of Gaming in Vermont

The future of gaming in Vermont has become more defined with the recent legalization of online sports betting in May 2023, marking a significant step forward in expanding the state’s gambling options. Previously, Vermont maintained a conservative stance, offering only the state lottery and charitable gaming. However, the successful launch of online sports betting in January 2024 indicates a shift in this approach, as Vermont has joined the growing number of states embracing regulated sports wagering.

While the legalization of sports betting represents progress, the state has yet to explore further expansions, such as the introduction of commercial or tribal casinos or online casinos. Any additional changes would likely require legislative approval, significant regulatory adjustments, and public support. The growing national trend towards digital and online gambling could eventually prompt Vermont to consider other forms of online gaming, but for now, the focus remains on ensuring the smooth operation of newly legalized sports betting.

As Vermont adapts to these changes, the state may see gradual growth in its gambling landscape, balancing traditional values with modern trends in sports betting and potentially other forms of regulated gaming in the future.

Gambling FAQ – Vermont

1. Can I gamble online if I live in Vermont?
   Online gambling in Vermont is largely restricted. The state does not currently authorize online casino games, poker, or sports betting. However, residents can participate in online lottery games through the Vermont Lottery’s official website. Any other form of online gambling remains illegal and is not regulated by state authorities.
   
   
2. Is gambling legal in Vermont?
   Yes, gambling is legal in Vermont, but it is limited to specific forms such as the state lottery, charitable gaming (like bingo and raffles), and online sports betting, which was recently legalized in 2023. While the state does not permit commercial or tribal casinos, Vermont allows residents to engage in regulated activities like lottery games and charitable events. Online sports betting officially launched in January 2024, reflecting the state’s cautious expansion into regulated gaming options​
   
   
3. Is there poker in Vermont?
   Vermont does not have commercial poker rooms, and poker is not widely available as a legal gambling activity. Home poker games may be played informally, but they cannot involve any profit-making motives, such as charging rake or entry fees, as this would be considered illegal under state law.
   
   
4. Are poker runs legal in Vermont?
   Yes, poker runs are legal in Vermont when conducted for charitable purposes. These events, which typically involve participants traveling to various locations to collect poker cards, must be licensed and comply with state regulations, ensuring that proceeds benefit recognized charities.
   
   
5. Is casino gambling legal in Vermont?
   No, casino gambling is not legal in Vermont. The state does not have any commercial or tribal casinos, and its laws do not currently permit the establishment of such gaming facilities. Residents seeking casino gambling opportunities often travel to neighboring states where casinos are legally operating.
   
   
6. Can I play online poker for money in Vermont?
   No, playing online poker for money is not legal in Vermont. While some offshore online poker platforms might be accessible, they operate in a legal gray area and are not regulated by the state. Participating in these platforms can pose legal and financial risks.
   
   
7. What gambling sites are legal in Vermont?
   The legal online gambling platforms in Vermont are limited to the state lottery and online sports betting. The Vermont Lottery offers online ticket sales and participation in some lottery games through its official website. As of January 2024, Vermont also allows residents to legally place sports bets using authorized platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Other forms of online gambling, such as online casinos and poker, remain illegal under state law.
   
   
8. What app can I gamble with in Vermont?
   Vermont residents can use the official Vermont Lottery app to purchase lottery tickets and participate in online lottery games. Additionally, with the legalization of sports betting in 2023, residents can now legally place sports bets using apps like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics, which launched in January 2024. However, there are no legal apps for online casino games or poker, as these forms of gambling remain prohibited under state law.
   
   
9. When did Vermont legalize gambling?
   Vermont legalized its state lottery in 1978, which marked the beginning of state-regulated gambling activities. Charitable gaming, including bingo and raffles, has also been legal for many years, allowing non-profit organizations to raise funds for community causes. Most recently, in May 2023, Vermont legalized online sports betting, with platforms launching in January 2024. This new development reflects the state’s cautious expansion into regulated gambling
   
   
10. What is the oldest gambling activity in Vermont?
    The Vermont Lottery, established in 1978, is the oldest state-sanctioned gambling activity in Vermont. Charitable gaming, such as bingo and raffles, has also been a longstanding tradition, supporting community groups and local charities through regulated fundraising events.