The state of Florida has launched numerous raids on arcade gaming centers since the start of 2025.
Many gaming centers that have been the focus of law enforcement offer casino-style games that are legal in the state. However, when the payouts are paid in real money, the law changes, deeming the game illegal.
In January of this year, local authorities raided two adult arcades on the Treasure Coast: Pharaoh’s Treasure in Vero Beach and Treasure Hunter’s Arcade in Fort Pierce.
In 2023, Pharaoh’s was temporarily closed following a raid before the establishment was sold to new owners. During the recent 2025 raid, law enforcement could be seen loading two semis with gaming equipment resembling slot machines.
Illegal Gambling And Enforcement in Florida
Florida does allow tribal casinos, but any other card game or game of chance played at any place, by any device, for money, or any other thing of value is considered illegal under Florida law.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) oversees tribal casinos, and the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) has the power to make arrests. The DGE is the first law enforcement agency to have illegal gambling and illegal gaming as its primary responsibility.
Legal Forms Of Gambling In Florida
- Casino gambling is permitted on lands belonging to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.
- Casino gambling is also allowed on cruise ships, but only in international waters outside Florida.
- State-run or national lotteries, such as the Powerball and Mega Millions
- Poker and dominoes played for money are allowed in licensed cardrooms.
- Small social games, such as poker, are permissible at home as long as a single round does not exceed $10 in value.
- Bingo, raffles, and charitable, nonprofit, or veterans’ organization drawings are also allowed.
Are Online Casinos Legal In Florida?
There are no state or federal laws explicitly outlawing online casinos in Florida. However, state laws do prevent casino operators from conducting business online without proper licensing.
Online casinos have been accepting players from the Sunshine State since the late 1990s and operating from trusted gambling jurisdictions worldwide. For many FL players, online casinos and sportsbooks are the best option, given the acceptance of digital currencies, bigger welcome bonuses, and no local gaming restrictions.