08/17/2025
In the state of California, sportsbooks—both physical and online—are not legally authorized to operate. While California is one of the largest and most lucrative potential markets for sports betting in the United States, legislative and ballot initiatives have yet to succeed in establishing a regulated framework. Currently, residents and visitors cannot legally place bets through state-licensed sportsbooks, whether at casinos, racetracks, or online platforms.
The prohibition on sportsbooks in California is rooted in both state law and the California Constitution, which restricts most forms of gambling unless explicitly authorized by voters. Native American tribes, which operate many of the state’s casinos under federal and state compacts, have traditionally held significant influence over gaming expansion. Horse race betting is legal at designated racetracks and online through pari-mutuel wagering, but this exception does not extend to sports betting.
Efforts to legalize sportsbooks have largely focused on voter initiatives. In November 2022, two competing propositions appeared on the state ballot:
Both measures failed, with voters rejecting them by wide margins. The defeat reflected a combination of political competition between tribes and commercial operators, public skepticism over gambling expansion, and an intense advertising battle that shaped voter perception.
Although state-licensed sportsbooks are not available, some residents turn to offshore betting sites or unregulated operators. These platforms operate outside U.S. jurisdiction and are not bound by California consumer protection laws. While they offer access to sports betting, using them carries significant legal and financial risks, including lack of recourse in the event of disputes.
The future of sportsbooks in California will depend on the ability of stakeholders—including tribal governments, state legislators, and national operators—to agree on a unified proposal that satisfies political, economic, and public concerns. Any future legalization effort will likely require a ballot measure, as constitutional amendments are necessary to expand gambling forms in the state. Given the state’s large population and sports culture, the financial incentives remain high, and renewed initiatives are expected in upcoming election cycles.
Sportsbooks are currently illegal in California, with no licensed in-person or online operators available to the public. Past legalization attempts have failed due to political disagreements and public opposition, but the potential market value ensures that efforts will continue in the future.