The following is a brief outline of requirements for raffles:
Only "qualified" organizations can hold raffles. Qualified organizations consist of a qualified religious society, qualified volunteer fire department, qualified volunteer emergency medical service, or qualified nonprofit organization.
A qualified nonprofit organization is one that holds a certificate of authority under the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act (Article 1396-1.01 et seq., Vernon's Texas Civil Statues), a 501(c) organization, or a local chapter, affiliate, unit or subsidiary organization of a qualified nonprofit organization.
Only two raffles may be conducted by the qualified organization per calendar year, and only one raffle may be held at a time.
The proceeds of the raffle must be used for the charitable purposes of the organization.
Paid advertising through television, radio or newspaper may not be used to promote a raffle.
Raffles may not be promoted statewide.
Only members of the qualified organization or individuals who are authorized by the organization can sell raffle tickets. The organization may not compensate anyone for organizing or conducting the raffle, or for selling raffle tickets.
Money may not be offered as a prize at a raffle.
The value of a prize may not exceed $50,000.
Qualified student organizations that are recognized by an institution of higher education may sell raffle tickets at any facility of the institution, subject to reasonable restrictions on the time, place and manner of the sale.
University policies and procedures regarding time place and manner must be complied with.
Please refer to the Charitable Raffle Enabling Act for complete information regarding raffles.
Charitable Raffle Enabling Act, Occupations Code, Chapter 2002
University Policy - Solicitation