expert 4
Denis Anipchenko
Expert opinion

British Columbia is a province of the state of Canada. It was one of the first to legalize online casinos in the country, opening the first online casino in 2010. In principle, there is no gambling license as a full-fledged definition in Canada because state corporations completely monopolize online gambling. And the system of regulation and licensing is quite strange and confusing.

However, there is a division of gaming policy and the right of the application, which will serve as the regulator and supervisory authority of the gambling industry in the territory of British Columbia.  

British Columbia is a province of the state of Canada. It was one of the first to legalize online casinos in the country, opening the first online casino in 2010. In principle, there is no gambling license as a full-fledged definition in Canada because state corporations completely monopolize online gambling. And the system of regulation and licensing is quite strange and confusing.

However, there is a division of gaming policy and the right of the application, which will serve as the regulator and supervisory authority of the gambling industry in the territory of British Columbia.  

Regulator licensed casinos

Only one site is available PlayNow.com. 

The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch British Columbians review

British Columbia is a province of Canada. The exact date of the foundation is not specified in official sources. Therefore, we will consider the year 2010 since the opening of the first legal online casino in the province.

In Canada, there is perhaps the most complicated system of licensing of gambling.

Each province has the right to establish a regulatory body. In British Columbia, it is the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB).

The controller operates in accordance with provincial law "On gambling oversight." Also, in its work, GPEB is guided by "Regulations on the Control of Gambling" and "the Criminal Code of Canada." It is worth noting that the regulator is inextricably linked to BC Lottery Corporation, which owns the site PlayNow.com. Gambling on the Internet is recommended to citizens of British Columbia on this resource. That is, it is the only licensed site.

With all this, Colombians can play in other casinos that do not have a license from the local regulator. However, in 2016, some other provinces began to block foreign online casinos.

The regulator not only oversees legislation implementation in the gambling field but also performs functions to protect players (social responsibility). Many activities aimed at:

  • Inform the public about the risks associated with gambling;
  • Organize gambling in a way that encourages responsible gambling and informed choice;
  • Providing treatment and support to those affected by gambling. 

License types of The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch British Columbians

In British Columbia, gambling licenses are required for land-based gambling. The Casinoz team focuses on this, as online gambling in the province is actually monopolized by BC Lottery Corporation.

  • Class A is necessary if the gross income of the company exceeds $20,000.
  • Class B is required by the organizers if their gross income is less than $20,000.
  • Class C is purchased when gambling is held at various exhibitions and fairs.
  • Class D is required by the organizers if their gross income is less than $5,000.

Knowing how the licensing principle in Canada works is necessary to fully understand the licensing process in British Columbia.

The state is divided into provinces. Each province has its own regulatory body for the gambling industry. In most of them (provinces), a lottery Corporation is created, which, in addition to monopolizing online gambling, is awarded the right to control the gambling market of the province. In fact, the state regulator controls the work of the corporation.

Naturally, corporations create online sites (it is an online casino). Sign contracts with developers of video pokies for online casinos. And players Canada that Spain plays only on such sites. The main thing is that they would be licensed by any state regulator of Canada (any province).

In addition to licensing, you must pass the certification procedure. This process is necessary:

  • The casino employees
  • Providers of gambling
  • Gambling equipment

It should be noted that in 2016, a number of proposals aimed at radical changes in the country's online gambling market were developed. In particular, it was proposed to license foreign institutions and block access to such a site in the absence of a local gambling license. 

Dispute resolution

On the regulator's official website, there is no specific mention of working with players' complaints on the online casino. But there is a special section, "Reporting Gambling Wrongdoing," in which you can file your complaint (report an offense on the part of the casino). You can also send an appeal to the email:

Gaming.Branch@gov.bc.ca or call toll–free 1 800 663 – 7867.

However, the complaint should be filed only against the establishment licensed in British Columbia. This is generally a positive aspect, as local legislation can be used to resolve issues in civil courts. 

Conclusion

The state strictly regulates online gambling in Canada. Due to its monopolization by various corporations, other companies are not allowed to enter the country's market, although this would create quite healthy competition and contribute to the improvement of the industry.

Specifically, the introduction of the BC Lottery Corporation has shaped the online gambling industry in British Columbia. On its website, the BC Lottery Corporation offers a variety of games, from video pokies to bingo. 

Casinoz believes that the regulation of the gambling industry in British Columbia is at an impasse at the moment. Perhaps the situation will change after amendments to the legislation and licensing of foreign casinos are adopted.

Frequently asked Questions

🎲 What is the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch in British Columbia?

The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) is a government body in the Canadian province of British Columbia responsible for regulating and overseeing the gambling industry. Its main goal is to ensure that all gambling establishments operate fairly, safely, and transparently.

✅ What functions does the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch perform?

GPEB handles a wide range of duties. Licensing: It issues licenses for various gambling establishments, from casinos to lotteries. Supervision: The branch regularly inspects the activities of licensed operators to ensure they meet all regulatory requirements. Player protection: GPEB safeguards consumer rights by ensuring the fairness of games, personal data security, and fraud prevention. Combatting illegal gambling: It takes action to stop illegal gambling activities within the province. Policy development: GPEB is involved in developing and improving gambling-related policies.

👮‍♂️ What is the purpose of the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch in British Columbia?

GPEB plays a key role in creating a safe and fair gaming environment in the province. Through its work, players can be confident that their rights are protected and their funds are secure.

📃 How can you verify a casino's license issued by the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch?

All licensed casinos in British Columbia are required to display the GPEB logo and license number on their website. Additionally, you can check the list of licensed operators on the branch’s official website.

🤝 How can you file a complaint against a casino with the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch?

If you experience issues with a licensed casino, you can file a complaint with GPEB. Detailed information about the complaint procedure is available on the branch’s official website.

🤑 What measures does the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch take to combat gambling addiction?

GPEB actively addresses responsible gaming. The branch collaborates with organizations that assist players with addiction and promotes responsible gaming principles among operators and players.

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Main info
Foundation date 2010
License types Class A , Class В , Class С , Class D
Name The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch British Columbians
Site languages English
Website https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/gambling-fundraising
Contacts
Support e-mail
E-mail
General issues
Complaints
Tel.
General issues
18006618773
Complaints
1800663-7867