Gaming Machines (Slot or Fruit Machines)

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 Preloved does not allow the advertising of gaming machines unless:

  • 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 clearly display their licence or permit number with each advertisement.
  • There is no opportunity to win a prize, for example, machines that are non-functional and not designed to be used for gambling (display purposes only). However it should be noted that removing or disconnecting a component(s) of a functional gaming machine during the period that it is for sale does not render the machine non-functional for the purpose of this exemption.

Obtaining a Licence Or Permit

If you collect gaming machines as a private individual and you want to sell, supply, repair, install or maintain a single machine you can obtain a single machine permit for a small one off fee from the Gambling Commission.

All other sellers will require an operating licence from the Gambling Commission.

For more information, see the following page on the Gambling Commission Web Site:

Checking a Seller Is Licensed

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.

The Gambling Commission may investigate you for offences under the Gambling Act 2005 relating to the sale and supply of gaming machines.

Preloved cooperates with law enforcement agencies including the Gambling Commission and will assist any agency investigating the illegal sale of a gaming (slot/fruit) machines upon verified request, in line with our privacy policy.