Teletheatre and Betting Theatre Licensing

In off-track betting an existing racetrack sends its races via satellite to designated off-track establishments where patrons can wager on horse races viewed on screens or TV sets. For licensing purposes, the term ‘Betting Theatre’ refers to the structure, whereas the term ‘Teletheatre’ refers to the betting activity. The wagering is supervised by the Canadian Parimutuel Agency, a division of Agriculture Canada, and bets are electronically transmitted to the host track.

For a Canadian racecourse association to legally conduct parimutuel betting at a location other than the racetrack (known as ‘off-track’ betting), they require a federal ‘Betting Theatre’ licence issued by the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency. Each off-track location requires a separate Licence.

To register your Betting Theatre licence, you must have an agreement with a licensed racetrack. To maintain your licence you must continue to meet the Registrar’s Standards for your registration and adhere to all terms and conditions of your licence.

Provincial licensing bodies

Teletheatre licences are regulated provincially. The application is completed in the province where the Teletheatre will be located.

• Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC)

• British Columbia Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch

• Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA)

• New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador: – Harness Racing Only

• • Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency
  • Atlantic Provinces Harness Racing Commission

• Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)

• Quebec – Regulation respecting betting houses

• Saskatchewan Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency

What are requirements to get a teletheatre licence?

Generally, to obtain a provincial teletheatre licence, the applicant must provide:

• letter of agreement with provincial-licensed racetrack operator confirming its support for you to open the teletheatre location
• constituting documents (such as certificate or articles of incorporation; charter/by-laws; partnership agreement; limited partnership agreement; limited partnership declaration; shareholder’s agreement; trust agreement; letter of good standing)
• for corporations, shareholders holding ownership, as well as any directors and managers
• copy of a letter advising the municipality of the application
• copy of a letter advising the local horseperson’s association that you’re applying for a licence
• proof of ownership or tenancy (lease agreement, offer to lease, property deed or rental agreement)
• fees

								
You now have 3 options:
								

									
More answers about Gaming / Gambling Law
									
Master List: 2,500 Legal Answers
																													
																		
Government Links