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Raffles and Poker Runs in the City of Mt. Vernon

No individual, company, or organization may host a raffle, sell raffle tickets, or organize a poker run within the City of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, without first obtaining a license.

What License Do I Need?

There are four license types available. Review the descriptions below to determine which best fits your event:

  • Raffle License - Allows the sale of raffle tickets anywhere in Illinois, including online, provided sales are limited to individuals within the state.
  • Poker Run License - Permits events only within city boundaries, at locations specified in the application. The license for the primary location covers the entire event, including additional predetermined stops if listed in the application.
  • Eligibility – Licenses are issued only to qualified non-profit organizations (religious, charitable, labor, business, fraternal, educational, veterans’ groups, or those providing financial assistance due to illness, disability, accident, or disaster). Law enforcement agencies and related associations are also eligible. In certain cases, the five-year continuous existence requirement may be waived for local affiliates of national or state organizations that meet this standard.
  • Limitations – Each license is valid only for the dates specified in the application. Please review the full ordinance for additional details.

How To Apply

Download the application and submit it by email or in person to the City Clerk's Office, City Hall. Please include all required documents and fees to avoid delays. Applications will be reviewed, and if approved, a license will be issued.

Click on the license below for fee information:

This license allows one raffle event with multiple prize drawings on the same day and at the same location. An applicant can get up to four of these licenses in a calendar year.

Fee: $20.00

This is for not-for-profit organizations aiming to help individuals facing financial hardship due to injury, disability, accidents, or disasters. It permits one raffle for this specific purpose.

Fee: $20.00

This license allows unlimited raffles in a year. It's valid from May 1 to April 30 the following year.

Fee: $20.00

This license permits one poker run event, and an applicant can get up to four of these licenses in a calendar year.

Fee: $20.00