Sports Betting in Ohio: Legal Landscape, Platforms, and Key Information

Legal Status of Sports Betting in Ohio

Sports betting became fully legal in the state of Ohio on January 1, 2023, following the passage of House Bill 29, signed by Governor Mike DeWine in December 2021. The legislation permits both online and retail sports betting across the state, regulated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC). This law marks a significant step forward in modernizing Ohio’s gambling industry, aligning it with a growing number of U.S. states embracing legal sports wagering.

Who Can Bet on Sports in Ohio?

To place a sports bet in Ohio, individuals must:

Be at least 21 years of age
Be physically located within Ohio’s borders at the time of placing the bet
Use a licensed and regulated sportsbook

Ohio employs geolocation technology to ensure all bets are placed within state lines. This system is built into mobile betting apps and online platforms, preventing out-of-state wagers.

Types of Sports Betting Allowed

Ohio allows a wide variety of bets, including:

Moneyline bets
Point spreads
Totals (Over/Under)
Parlays and teasers
Live (in-play) betting
Futures and prop bets

Bettors can wager on professional leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS), college sports (including Ohio State University), and international events. However, certain restrictions apply to bets on minor leagues and high school sports, which are prohibited.

Online and Mobile Sportsbooks in Ohio

Several top-tier sportsbooks operate in Ohio, including:

FanDuel Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook
BetMGM
Caesars Sportsbook
PointsBet
Barstool Sportsbook
Bet365

Each of these platforms offers a mobile app and website, allowing Ohio residents to place bets conveniently from their smartphones or computers. Promotions such as risk-free bets, deposit matches, and bonus bet credits are frequently offered to new users.

Retail Sportsbooks and Physical Locations

Retail sportsbooks have also opened across the state at casinos, racinos, and professional sports venues. Notable examples include:

Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati
Hollywood Casino Columbus
JACK Cleveland Casino
Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse (Cleveland Cavaliers stadium)

These in-person locations feature betting windows and self-service kiosks, giving bettors a traditional sportsbook experience.

Taxation and Revenue Impact

Ohio taxes sports betting revenue at a 20% rate as of mid-2023. Revenue from sports betting is directed toward public education, problem gambling support services, and youth sports programs. The rapid adoption of sports betting has already generated substantial income for the state, with expectations of long-term growth.

Responsible Gambling Measures

The Ohio Casino Control Commission and individual operators enforce strict responsible gambling policies, including:

Deposit and wager limits
Self-exclusion programs
Partnerships with mental health organizations

Resources like the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-589-9966) are available 24/7 for individuals in need of support.

Future of Sports Betting in Ohio

With a robust legal framework, strong regulatory oversight, and wide market participation, Ohio is positioned to become one of the most active sports betting states in the U.S. As more technology partners and professional sports teams integrate betting features into their operations, Ohio’s market is expected to continue expanding rapidly.

Conclusion

Ohio’s legalization of sports betting has opened the door to a new era of entertainment and revenue. From mobile apps to in-stadium betting lounges, the options are vast and regulated to ensure fair play and public safety. Whether you’re a casual bettor or a seasoned sports enthusiast, Ohio now offers a legal and dynamic environment for sports wagering.