Washington Gambling Laws 2026: Tribal Casinos, Sports Betting & Online Rules
Washington enforces strict gambling regulations under RCW 9.46, permitting robust land-based tribal gaming while prohibiting most forms of online real-money wagering. The state features 29 tribal casinos offering Class III games, including slots, table games, poker, and limited on-site sports betting. Real-money online casinos, poker, and statewide mobile sports betting remain illegal, classified as felonies under laws prohibiting transmission of gambling information via the internet. Offshore sites pose significant legal risks, with no state protections. Alternatives include sweepstakes models for casino-style play and legal horse racing wagering.
Overview of Gambling in Washington
Gambling is defined as risking something of value on chance outcomes, with exceptions for tribal compacts, charitable gaming, the state lottery, and pari-mutuel horse betting. RCW 9.46.240 makes transmitting or receiving gambling information online a Class C felony. Enforcement focuses on operators, but individual participation in unauthorized online activities carries prosecution risks. The Washington State Gambling Commission regulates non-tribal activities, while tribal gaming operates under federal compacts. No commercial casinos exist, and expansion beyond tribal exclusivity faces ongoing challenges.
Land-Based Casinos in Washington
Washington hosts 29 tribal casinos operated by 23 federally recognized tribes under Class III compacts. These venues provide electronic lottery terminals (similar to slots), table games, poker rooms, and select sportsbooks. Key highlights include:
- Muckleshoot Casino (Auburn): One of the largest, with extensive slots, tables, and poker.
- Tulalip Resort Casino (Tulalip): Resort-style with gaming, entertainment, and on-site sportsbook options.
- Snoqualmie Casino (Snoqualmie): Features retail sportsbook launched in 2021, slots, and tables.
- Northern Quest Resort & Casino (Airway Heights): Large facility near Spokane with diverse gaming.
- Emerald Queen Casino (Tacoma): Offers slots, tables, and entertainment venues.
Non-tribal card rooms in select counties provide house-banked games where permitted. Sports betting is restricted to tribal properties with approved compacts, often requiring physical presence for mobile app use.
Online Gambling and Offshore Sites
Real-money online casinos, poker, and most sports betting are illegal statewide. The 2006 law explicitly prohibits internet gambling, with no regulated intrastate market. Offshore platforms accepting Washington players operate without state oversight, exposing users to felony risks, delayed payouts, and no recourse. Sweepstakes and social casinos offer legal alternatives using virtual currencies redeemable for prizes, avoiding direct wagering definitions. Prediction markets face similar prohibitions per Gambling Commission statements.
Poker in Washington
Poker thrives in tribal casinos and licensed card rooms, with over 280 tables across venues. Cash games and low-buy-in tournaments occur regularly. Online real-money poker is prohibited as a felony, with no licensed platforms. Offshore sites provide access but violate state law, though enforcement against individuals is rare. Play-money or social poker avoids restrictions.
Sports Betting in Washington
Sports betting, legalized in 2020 via HB 2638 and tribal compact amendments, is exclusive to tribal casinos with approved sportsbooks (around 14-17 operational as of 2026). Bets must occur on tribal premises; mobile apps are geofenced to casino locations. No statewide online or retail sportsbooks exist outside tribes. Pari-mutuel horse racing remains legal on-track and via ADW platforms. College sports wagers on in-state teams are prohibited.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
DFS contests are illegal in Washington, as they fall under online gambling prohibitions. Major operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and PrizePicks do not accept Washington players. No legislative changes occurred to classify DFS as skill-based or authorize it.
Washington Lottery and Bingo
The Washington Lottery, established in 1982, offers draw games (Lotto, Hit 5, Match 4, Daily Game), Keno, scratchers, Powerball, and Mega Millions. Tickets are sold only at retail locations—no online sales permitted. Charitable bingo and pull-tabs are allowed for nonprofits with permits, while commercial bingo operates in select venues. Online bingo or real-money versions remain illegal.
Washington Gambling FAQ
What gambling options are available in Washington?
Legal activities include tribal casino gaming (slots, tables, poker), on-site tribal sports betting, horse racing (pari-mutuel and ADW), state lottery (retail only), and charitable bingo. No statewide online real-money options exist.
Is online gambling legal in Washington?
No. RCW 9.46 prohibits transmitting/receiving gambling information online, making real-money casinos, poker, and most sports betting felonies. Offshore access is common but unlawful.
Do offshore sites accept Washington players?
Many do, often supporting credit cards and wires, but participation risks felony charges and lacks protections. Some sites restrict new accounts from Washington.
Will Washington legalize online casinos or expand sports betting?
Unlikely soon. Tribal exclusivity and strict laws persist; no active iGaming proposals advanced in recent sessions. Sports betting remains tribal-limited, with no statewide mobile push anticipated before 2027.