Media Bingo
Only charitable and religious organizations can hold a media bingo event. The LGCA licenses these events in accordance with Section 207(1)(b) of the Criminal Code (Canada).
To learn if your organization is eligible to apply for a licence, review the LGCA's eligibility guide . Organizations that have never been licensed or have not had a licence in three years or more must submit background information to show its eligibility for a licence.
Media bingo is a lottery scheme that takes place over a form of mass communication, including but not limited to radio, television and newspaper. in which players buy bingo cards and try to win prizes by matching the numbers on their cards to the numbers called. The numbers are conveyed to the players using one or more of the above methods of mass communication. The player correctly completing the required pattern in the least amount of number is declared the winner.
All media bingos must be licensed regardless of the expected revenue and how the profits will be used. Conducting a media bingo without a licence is a criminal offence.
Terms and Conditions and Standard Rules of Play
Organizations holding media bingos must comply with the terms and conditions set by the LGCA. Licensees may also set their own individual house rules to be used with the LGCA’s standard rules of play.
Fees
- Licence fee: 1.0% of actual gross revenue of the bingo or breakopen
- Due at the same time as the financial reports. The LGCA will provide the reporting requirements when the licence is issued.
How to Apply
You can apply for a bingo or bingo and breakopen licence at MyLGCA.ca.
How to Make Changes to a Licence
Once licensed, organizations must notify the LGCA of any changes they want to make to their event, such as dates, use of profits or expenses. The LGCA must approve the changes before the organization can advertise or implement them. You can submit an amendment at MyLGCA.ca.
A MyLGCA account is necessary for an organization to submit an amendment. Organizations that do not have a MyLGCA account can contact the LGCA, either:
- By email through our website (Select Gaming Licence and indicate that your organization needs to set up a MyLGCA account.)
- By calling 204-927-5300 or Manitoba only toll-free 1-800-782-0363 and asking for Gaming Services.
To ask for an accessibility accommodation when making an application or requesting an amendment, call the LGCA's Gaming Services department at either number above.