Is Gambling Legal in Utah?
Utah does not permit any type of licensed gambling activities.
Utah gambling laws are the one of the most restrictive in the US. Alongside Hawaii, their laws create an almost complete void of any form of gambling. Even a state lottery, which is commonly found in US States is prohibited.
Their laws place a blank ban on all forms of gambling unless explicitly exempt. As such, even online gambling can be construed as illegal.
Utah gambling laws are enshrined in the constitution, and prohibits any game of chance, lottery or gift enterprise in any shape or form.
Online Gambling
Online gambling is not directly referred to in gambling laws. However it can be assumed that is it illegal due to the blank statement that prohibits any game of chance. Arguably an online gambling provider that resides outside the borders of Utah has not breached any State law, and thus, there are some offshore online providers that accept Utah players.
Land Based Casinos
There are no regulated land based casinos in Utah. No commercial casino is allowed to be operated. Nor are there any tribal casinos.
Lottery
No license has been issued for the provision of any lottery games. Therefore lottery games are illegal in the State.
Sports Betting
Sports betting is deemed a game of chance. As such sports betting is illegal in the State.
Daily Fantasy Sport
DFS is deemed a game of chance. As such DFS is illegal in the State.
Bingo
Bingo is a game of chance. And is therefore technically prohibited in the State. However, there are a handful of venues whereby “free” bingo is offered as part of a meal.
Slot Gaming
Some venues began offering unregulated slot machines towards the end of 2018. Since then, slot gaming has begun to grow initiating the Senator to introduce legislation to clarify the definition of gaming devices to clamp down on unregulated slot machines. At the time of writing, legislation has passed both Senate and House and is awaiting final approval by the Governor.
It is anticipated that the legislation will be approved, thereby effectively closing any loop holes in the law.
