In the United States, raffles, opportunity drawing, and lotteries are governed by individual states. Each state has its own set of definitions and raffle laws that dictate what is considered a raffle, which organizations are permitted to host a raffle, and what is required to host a raffle legally within the state.
Some states make it a bit more complicated than others. Still, nonprofit organizations hosting ticketing events like raffles and online raffles often host more than one raffle yearly. Raffles are some of the biggest campaigns on Zeffy. They can raise a lot of money for the nonprofits that host them.
So, yes, the first raffle you host can be a bit time-consuming and confusing, but all the time and energy invested is ultimately worth it. Plus, raffles are a great way to mix up your fundraising campaign portfolio, and, as an added bonus, they attract new donors to your nonprofit, especially if you come up with great raffle prize ideas.
Okay, let’s get started.
The state of Florida defines a nonprofit raffle as:
"Drawing by chance,” “drawing,” or “raffle” means an enterprise in which, from the entries submitted by the public to the organization conducting the drawing, one or more entries are selected by chance to win a prize. The term “drawing” does not include those enterprises, commonly known as “game promotions,” as defined by s. 849.094, “matching,” “instant winner,” or “preselected sweepstakes,” which involve the distribution of winning numbers, previously designated as such, to the public.”
Who can host a raffle in Florida?
To host a raffle in Florida, you need to be a qualified nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3), (4), (7), (8), (10), or (19) status and a current determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service.
Florida raffle laws for nonprofits
What to include on any promotional material and raffle tickets
Florida requires your nonprofit to include a few details on any brochures, advertisements, notices, tickets, or entry blanks related to your nonprofit’s raffle.
- The rules of your nonprofit’s raffle.
- The full name and address of the nonprofit organization.
- The source of the funds used to award or purchase cash prizes.
- The date, hour, and place where the winner will be chosen and the prizes awarded.
- No purchase or contribution is necessary.
Although it’s not written, we recommend that printed tickets have a detachable coupon or stub and that both the ticket and its coupon or stub be marked with a unique and matching number.
You can purchase pre-made tickets or get inspired by our sample ticket:
Regulations on Florida raffles
Any organization operating, promoting, or conducting a raffle in Florida must be aware of several illegal actions to avoid.
Illegal actions include:
- Predetermining a winner by matching, instant wins, or sweepstakes in any way where the selection is rigged
- Requiring an entry fee, donation, or any type of payment to win a prize (although a suggested minimum donation is prohibited)
- Including a minimum number of tickets to be disbursed or a minimum amount of contributions to run the raffle
- Removing or rejecting entries in a way that discriminates against those who have not given a contribution to your organization
- Failing to notify winners or awarding all prizes offered promptly
- Printing, publishing, or circulating any materials in relation to the raffle that are misleading
We’ll talk to the violation risk and penalties associated to these illegal activities below.
How does a nonprofit register for a raffle in Florida?
You do not have to register or obtain a license or permit to host a raffle in Florida. However, you do have to be a qualified nonprofit organization and register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to solicit optional donations as part of your raffle.
Raffles offering prizes with a value exceeding $5,000 are subject to additional registration requirements:
- Nonprofit organizations must file with FDACS at least seven days before the event
- Organizers must establish a trust account in a national or state-chartered financial institution with a balance that matches or exceeds the total value of all prizes
- The organization must provide a surety bond or statement of trust unless they have run raffles or other game promotions for at least 5 years consecutively without violations
- Material terms of raffle rules must be published officially on any advertising
- The full rules need to be posted anywhere the raffle is promoted or hosted
- Nonprofits must share a list of winners to anyone requesting one at no cost
This includes raffles in Florida or open to Florida residents, even if the organization is based outside of the state.
Florida raffle law penalties and violations
According to the latest Florida Statutes, any illegal raffle actions are subject to deceptive and unfair trade practices. These violations are subject to penalties equivalent to misdemeanors of the second degree.
Penalties and punishments are outlined in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, and begin at $500 upon conviction.
Florida raffle laws: FAQs
Here’s a recap of all the links and documents mentioned in this article:
The 2023 Florida Statutes (including Special Session C)
Violations and penalties for illegal raffle actions: s. 775.082, s. 775.083
