Arizona Contest and Sweepstakes Laws

In Arizona, contests and sweepstakes are legal when they comply with regulations designed to distinguish lawful promotions from illegal gambling. To avoid being classified as gambling, a promotion must eliminate one of the three elements: prize, chance, or consideration. Sweepstakes typically eliminate consideration by offering a free method of entry, while contests are based on skill to eliminate chance.

Arizona requires that any amusement gambling intellectual contest or event be registered with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office before it begins. Sponsors must submit detailed information, including the event rules, duration, prize descriptions, and a post-event report listing winners' names and addresses. Nonprofit organizations wishing to conduct raffles must meet specific criteria such as operating within the state for at least five years and holding a tax-exempt status.

Sponsors must clearly disclose all material terms such as eligibility, methods of entry, odds of winning, and prize descriptions to maintain transparency. Arizona’s Attorney General provides additional guidance to distinguish legitimate promotions from deceptive practices. Promoters should ensure compliance with all applicable rules to protect participants and maintain the legitimacy of their sweepstakes or contests. Sources:

• Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13, Chapter 33 – Gambling
• Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3311 – Amusement Gambling Registration
• Arizona Attorney General – Sweepstakes and Lotteries Guidance
• Amusement Gambling Registration Information and Forms