Yes, gambling is legal in Chicago and throughout Illinois, but with specific regulations and restrictions. As of 2023, Chicago allows various forms of legal gambling, including casino gaming, sports betting, lottery, and horse racing.

In 2019, Illinois passed a major gambling expansion bill that specifically authorized Chicago's first casino. The Bally's Chicago Casino, currently under construction, will be located in the River West neighborhood and is expected to open its temporary facility in 2024.

Legal forms of gambling in Chicago include:

• Casino games (slots, table games)
• Sports betting (both retail and mobile)
• Illinois State Lottery
• Horse race betting
• Video gaming terminals in licensed establishments
• Charitable gaming and raffles

It's important to note that while gambling is legal, there are strict age requirements. You must be 21 or older to enter casinos or place sports bets, while lottery tickets can be purchased at age 18.

For sports betting, Chicago residents can legally place bets through licensed mobile apps or at retail sportsbooks. Major operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers are legally available throughout the city.

The Illinois Gaming Board regulates all gambling activities in Chicago and throughout the state. They enforce strict licensing requirements and ensure gambling operations comply with state laws and regulations.

Illegal gambling activities in Chicago include:

• Underground casino operations
• Unlicensed sports betting operations
• Unauthorized poker rooms
• Illegal slot machines outside licensed venues

Penalties for illegal gambling can include significant fines and potential jail time. The city actively enforces these regulations to maintain the integrity of legal gambling operations.

If you're interested in gambling in Chicago, always ensure you're using licensed, regulated venues and operators. This protects your rights as a consumer and ensures compliance with local laws.

For the most current information about gambling regulations in Chicago, you can visit the Illinois Gaming Board's official website or consult with legal professionals familiar with local gaming laws.

Previous Articles