Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Montana? (2026)
No — Daily Fantasy Sports is illegal in Montana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2019: Montana legalized fantasy sports in 2019, giving the state lottery a monopoly.
Quick Answer
Daily Fantasy Sports are not legal in Montana. Montana legalized fantasy sports in 2019, giving the state lottery a monopoly.
What the Law Says
Montana law prohibits all forms of gambling that are not state-authorized, and daily fantasy sports are considered an illegal form of sports betting.
— Mont. Code Ann. § 23-5-802
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| DFS Rules | Illegal or not authorized |
| Licensed Operators | Platforms do not operate |
| Penalties | Varies; may be treated as illegal gambling. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Montana legalized fantasy sports in 2019, giving the state lottery a monopoly.
Enforcement Reality
The Montana Lottery regulates fantasy sports. It is the only entity authorized to offer fantasy sports contests in the state.
Players may not be aware that only the state lottery can offer fantasy sports, and other operators are illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Montana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Daily Fantasy Sports is illegal in Montana. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Montana vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, playing daily fantasy sports is fully legal in 38 states, restricted in 7, and illegal in 5. Montana falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Sports Betting Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to sports betting and gambling laws.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Montana Legal Guides
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