Lawful Gambling Ordinance Amendment

City Council is considering updates to its lawful gambling ordinance in response to a request to allow premise permits for charitable gambling at Edina establishments. A premise permit allows ongoing gambling at specific locations approved by City Council. As part of charitable gambling review, staff are recommending changes that would allow up to three premise permits to conduct lawful gambling at qualifying on-sale liquor establishments. The premise permits would be limited to nonprofit organizations located in Edina. The proposal requires that 70% of net gambling proceeds be spent in Edina and cities that border Edina which is referred to as the "trade area".

Staff are also recommending a plan to cover City staff support and cover the City’s costs of regulating lawful gambling. This plan includes a 3% gambling tax and a requirement that 10% of net profits be contributed to a City-administered fund. Together, these recommendations are intended to balance nonprofit fundraising opportunities with responsible regulation.

Before City Council decides on the ordinance, they are looking for community feedback. Community feedback will help inform the Council’s discussion and next steps. City Council will consider the ordinance on February 4, 2026 at their council meeting. This ordinance will go in front of council two times, first reading and second reading. Upon approval of the second reading, the ordinance will be considered approved.

Process Overview:

• Review the draft ordinance and supporting materials.
• Share your feedback by submitting your feedback below All online comments will be provided to the City Council.