The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario just made mandatory lottery ticket purchases illegal across the province. The regulator updated its Lottery Licence Policy Manual this week to close what many saw as a compliance loophole.
Organisations that run charitable lotteries can no longer force people to buy tickets. This applies to raffle tickets, break open tickets, and similar products.
The new rules cover all scenarios. Even if buying a ticket is tied to registering for a service or program, it’s not allowed anymore.
Why AGCO Banned Forced Ticket Purchases
The commission said the change supports licensing authorities and charitable gaming licensees operating in Ontario. But there’s more to it than that.
Forced purchases created ethical problems. Some organisations made ticket sales a condition of participation in programs or events. Players didn’t always have a real choice.
AGCO stated the action “aligns with the AGCO’s mandate to regulate in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, and in the public interest.” The regulator wants charitable gaming to stay voluntary.
Organisations that don’t currently require ticket purchases can’t introduce them going forward. The ban is permanent.
What the Policy Update Actually Changes
The updated Lottery Licence Policy Manual now includes specific guidelines on voluntary purchases. All charitable gaming licensees in Ontario need to review the new section.
The changes took effect immediately. No grace period was offered.
Any organisation currently requiring mandatory ticket sales must stop the practice now. The AGCO made clear this isn’t optional.
The policy manual serves as the primary reference for all lottery licensing in the province. Operators should check the updated version for full details on compliance requirements.
How This Fits AGCO’s Broader Enforcement Push
This policy change comes during a wider crackdown on gaming violations. Earlier this week, AGCO announced it removed over 50 illegal electronic gaming machines across Ontario during the summer months.
The commission also revoked lottery registrations tied to unregulated gambling machines in July. Those enforcement actions targeted machines in the Greater Toronto area operating under the Prime Slot brand.
The mandatory purchase ban shows AGCO is tightening oversight across all gambling categories. Charitable gaming now faces the same scrutiny as commercial operations.
Licensees should expect continued enforcement focus on player protection and fair practices. The regulator seems committed to closing compliance gaps wherever they appear.
