Online Gambling in British Columbia: What You Need to Know
British Columbia (BC), one of Canada’s most progressive provinces when it comes to online gambling, allows residents to participate in a wide range of internet-based wagering activities legally and safely. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) oversees all regulated gambling in the province, including its official online platform, PlayNow.com. Here’s a comprehensive look into online gambling in BC.
Legal Framework and Regulation
Online gambling is legal in British Columbia under the authority of the Gaming Control Act and is regulated by the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) and operated by the BCLC. These organizations ensure that all online gambling operations follow strict security, fairness, and responsible gaming practices.
The only provincially licensed online gambling site is PlayNow.com, which is operated directly by BCLC. It offers casino games, sports betting, poker, lottery, and bingo to residents of BC who are at least 19 years old and physically located within the province.
Games Available for Online Gambling in BC
PlayNow.com provides a wide array of options, including:
- Slots: Hundreds of video slot titles with various themes, paylines, and bonus features.
- Table Games: Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and various poker games in both virtual and live dealer formats.
- Sports Betting: Single-event betting, parlays, and in-play betting on major sports.
- Lottery: Instant-win tickets and draws including Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, and BC 49.
- Poker: Tournaments and cash games powered by BCLC’s peer-to-peer poker network.
- Bingo: Regularly scheduled online bingo rooms with various jackpots.
Responsible Gambling Tools
BCLC incorporates several responsible gambling tools to protect players from the risks of problem gambling. Features include:
- Deposit and spending limits
- Time-out periods
- Self-exclusion options
- Access to GameSense, an educational program offering gambling facts and resources
All accounts must be verified to confirm age and location before users can wager real money, ensuring compliance with provincial law.
Offshore Casinos and Grey Area
While PlayNow.com is the only site legally permitted to operate from within British Columbia, many BC residents still access offshore online casinos and sportsbooks. These platforms are often licensed in jurisdictions such as Malta, Curacao, or Gibraltar. Although it is not illegal for individuals in BC to play on these international sites, these platforms are not regulated by Canadian authorities and therefore lack the consumer protections offered by BCLC.
The government does not actively prosecute players who use offshore sites, but players should be aware that legal recourse may be limited in the event of disputes or non-payment of winnings.
Taxes on Winnings
In Canada, including BC, gambling winnings from games of chance—such as slots, poker, and lotteries—are generally not taxed. However, if gambling is conducted in a manner considered businesslike (e.g., full-time professional poker), the Canada Revenue Agency may treat it as taxable income. For the vast majority of casual gamblers, online winnings are not subject to taxation.
Conclusion
Online gambling in British Columbia is fully legal and well-regulated through BCLC’s PlayNow.com platform. It offers residents a wide selection of games, secure transactions, and responsible gambling resources. While access to offshore sites exists, players are encouraged to use the provincial platform for a safer and legally protected experience. For BC residents aged 19 and over, online gambling is a convenient, legal, and enjoyable form of entertainment when played responsibly.
