Is Online Casinos & Poker Legal in Minnesota? (2026)
No — Online Casinos & Poker are illegal in Minnesota as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: In March 2026, a bill was introduced to ban online sweepstakes casinos. Another bill to legalize online sports betting is also under consideration.
Quick Answer
Minnesota prohibits online casino gambling and poker under Minn. Stat. § 609.75 and related statutes. The state only permits limited gambling such as charitable gambling and state lottery.
- Age restriction: 18+ for lottery and charitable gambling; 21+ for other gambling activities
What the Law Says
Minnesota law does not authorize online casino gambling. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 609 covers gambling offenses.
— Minnesota Statutes § 609.75
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Online Casino Rules | Possession of online gambling software or devices for personal use is not explicitly criminalized but facilitating or operating online gambling is illegal. |
| Licensed Platforms | Sale or operation of online gambling platforms is prohibited without state authorization. |
| Penalties | Violations can result in gross misdemeanor charges with fines and imprisonment up to 1 year. |
| Minimum Age | 18+ for lottery and charitable gambling; 21+ for other gambling activities. |
| Pending Legislation | None known. |
In March 2026, a bill was introduced to ban online sweepstakes casinos. Another bill to legalize online sports betting is also under consideration.
Enforcement Reality
The Minnesota Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division actively enforces state gambling laws. In November 2025, the Attorney General directed several illegal gambling websites to cease operations.
Participating in online sweepstakes casinos is a common mistake, as these are considered illegal by the state.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Minnesota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Online Casinos & Poker are illegal in Minnesota. 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.
Minnesota vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, playing at online casinos is fully legal in 17 states, restricted in 12, and illegal in 21. Minnesota 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.
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