Gaming Machine Permit
To place gaming machines in your catering establishment, you need a presence permit . This permit is issued by the Mayor of the municipality where, for example, your cafe is located.

 

This does not immediately mean that the gaming machines may be operated. In addition, an operating permit is also required (read: more about the operating permit here ).

Application
Applying for a presence permit for gaming machines can be done using the specific application forms of the municipality. The application forms differ per municipality. You need a number of things for this, including an alcohol law permit.

Requirements

1. Licensed catering establishment under the Alcohol Act

2. The cafe and restaurant visit are stand-alone and where no other activities take place that can be attributed an independent meaning.

3. The activities are largely aimed at persons aged 18 and over.

Regulations
The permit may also be subject to regulations and restrictions. The permit always contains the provision that only gaming machines may be installed that are owned by persons who are in possession of an operating permit.
 

Duration of a presence permit
The presence permit is often issued for a specific period and can vary from 12 months to 4 years. A permit for an indefinite period is also possible.

High-threshold/ Low-threshold
When applying for a new permit, the Municipality will assess whether the conditions as described under Requirements have been met. It is not always clear whether the facility actually qualifies as high-threshold.

A combination where a part of the café qualifies as low-threshold and part qualifies as high-threshold, often leads to discussions with the Municipality when processing an application. If the cafe qualifies as low-threshold, the presence permit for the gaming machines is often rejected. It is possible to design your business in such a way that your catering business still qualifies as high-threshold.

Would you like more information on how to best set up your catering business to meet all the requirements for the permit, or would you like to object to a rejection?