Vermont Gambling: Recommended Online Casinos and Sportsbooks, Regulation and News

The gambling landscape in Vermont is defined by a historically cautious and restrictive approach. Unlike its neighbors, Vermont maintains a limited footprint focused on the state lottery, charitable gaming, and a strictly regulated mobile-only sports wagering market. Traditional land-based casinos and tribal gaming remain prohibited.

The most significant shift occurred in January 2024 with the launch of legal online sports betting. This market, overseen by the Vermont Department of Liquor & Lottery (DLL), has exceeded early fiscal expectations, driven by both residents and out-of-state visitors.

Despite this expansion, the state remains a 'controlled' environment; online casinos (iGaming), poker, and retail sportsbooks are currently unlicensed. Success has sparked expansion talks. However, Vermont still prioritizes strict regulation and responsible gaming over rapid market growth.

Best Online Sportsbooks in Vermont

Best Online Gambling Sites in Vermont

Recent Gambling News from the State of Vermont

Overview: Vermont Tribes and Their Role in State Betting

Vermont remains unique in New England as it has no federally recognized tribes, a fact that fundamentally shapes its gambling industry. 

Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), only federally recognized tribes may negotiate gaming compacts. Consequently, Vermont has no tribal casinos or heritage-based betting enterprises.

While the state formally recognized four Abenaki bands between 2011 and 2012, Vermont statutes (1 V.S.A. § 853) explicitly mandate that state recognition does not authorize any form of gambling. This distinguishes Vermont from states like Maine, which launched tribal-led sports betting in late 2023. 

Instead, Vermont utilizes a purely commercial framework where the Department of Liquor & Lottery (DLL) directly licenses private operators like DraftKings and FanDuel. As of 2026, tribes hold no regulatory or revenue-sharing role in the state's sports betting or lottery systems. 

Additionally, all gaming tax revenue flows directly into the Green Mountain State's General and Education Funds.

Key Vermont Tribes and Their Operations

As mentioned earlier, Vermont doesn't have recognized tribes that operate gambling establishments. While the state has no federally recognized tribes, it does officially recognize four Abenaki bands at the state level.

However, under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), only federal recognition allows a tribe to negotiate the gaming compacts necessary to operate casinos. Consequently, Vermont has no tribal gaming facilities or heritage-based betting enterprises.

Vermont state law (1 V.S.A. § 853) is explicit: state recognition is intended to honor cultural and historic contributions and does not authorize any form of gambling or land claims. 

As a result, Vermont's tribal communities such as the Nulhegan Band or the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi focus their economic and social efforts. This includes cultural preservation, scholarship programs, and sustainable agriculture rather than the gaming industry. 

In the absence of a sovereign tribal gaming framework, the state's betting landscape is entirely commercial and regulated by the Vermont Department of Liquor & Lottery."

Key 2026 Development

As of early 2026, there is an ongoing dispute between Vermont-recognized groups and the Odanak and Wolinak First Nations in Canada regarding the legitimacy of Vermont's state-recognition process. 

While this hasn't impacted gambling laws, it has kept the topic of "Tribal Status" in the legislative spotlight, further cementing the state's cautious "no-expansion" stance regarding tribal rights.

Current Vermont Gambling Laws

Title 31, Chapter 25: Sports Wagering

The most significant shift in Vermont's gaming policy was the legalization of mobile sports betting, which launched in January 2024. Under Title 31, Chapter 25, the state authorizes up to six online operators to provide sportsbooks to individuals 21 or older within state lines. 

Notably, Vermont does not allow "retail" or in-person sports betting; all wagers must be placed through mobile apps. The law also strictly prohibits betting on in-state collegiate teams unless they are participating in a major tournament.

Title 31, Chapter 14: State Lottery Laws

The Vermont Lottery has been a staple of the state's revenue since 1978. Governed by Title 31, Chapter 14, the lottery is managed by the Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL). 

As of July 2026, Vermont has authorized the "iLottery" expansion (via Act H.669), which permits the sale of tickets and subscriptions through mobile apps and the internet. All profits from the lottery are directed to the state's Education Fund.

Title 13, Section 2143: Charitable Gaming (Games of Chance)

Vermont permits non-profit organizations to conduct certain games of chance, such as bingo, raffles, and "break-open" tickets, for fundraising purposes. 

Title 13, Section 2143 outlines strict limitations: the organization must have existed for at least a year. Additionally, the majority of proceeds must go toward charitable, educational, or religious purposes. 

While "casino nights" are permitted under this law, they are highly restricted in frequency and the value of prizes that can be awarded.

Title 13, Chapter 51: General Gambling Prohibitions

Outside of the specifically authorized lottery, sports betting, and charitable activities, most forms of gambling are illegal under Title 13, Chapter 51. This includes "common gambling houses," the possession of gambling implements (like slot machines), and bookmaking. 

Vermont law is particularly strict regarding unauthorized "games of chance" played for money, and violations can result in significant fines or imprisonment.

Title 31, Chapter 25, Subchapter 3: Fantasy Sports Contests

Vermont formally regulated Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) to provide consumer protections while ensuring the state receives a share of the revenue. 

Under Title 31, Chapter 25, Subchapter 3, operators must register with the state and follow specific fairness and truth-in-advertising guidelines. This ensures that DFS is treated as a legal, regulated activity rather than an unauthorized "game of chance."

Latest Vermont Legislative Updates

House Bill 669: Internet Lottery Expansion

Introduced in early 2026, H.669 is the most significant piece of gaming legislation currently under debate. This bill would authorize the Department of Liquor and Lottery to sell tickets, "eInstants" (digital scratch-offs), and lottery subscriptions directly through mobile apps and websites. 

The state administration projects this could generate an additional $7 million annually for the Education Fund. However, the bill has faced pushback from local retailers concerned about losing "foot traffic" and advocates worried about the 24/7 accessibility of gambling on smartphones.

House Bill 133: Proposal to Repeal Sports Betting

In a rare move, a group of lawmakers introduced H.133 in 2025 (carried over into the 2026 session) which proposes to repeal the statutes authorizing both the state lottery and sports wagering. 

Proponents of the bill argue that legalized gambling is "predatory" and disproportionately affects lower-income Vermonters. While the bill is considered a "long shot" and is unlikely to pass given the revenue already integrated into the state budget.

 Moreover, it has forced a high-profile legislative debate on the ethics of state-sponsored gaming.

Ban on College Athlete "Prop Bets"

Following a national trend and a formal request from the NCAA in early 2026, Vermont's regulators and legislators have codified a total ban on individual college athlete prop bets. 

While betting on college game outcomes was already restricted (no in-state teams unless in a tournament), this update specifically prevents bettors from wagering on the performance of a single student-athlete. 

This move was prompted by reports of athlete harassment and is intended to protect the integrity of collegiate sports.

Responsible Gaming Funding Increases

As part of the FY2026 Budget cycle, the legislature has maintained a doubled allocation for the Responsible Gaming Special Fund. Originally set at $250,000 during the sports betting launch, the funding was increased to $500,000 annually. 

Legislative updates now require the Department of Liquor and Lottery to submit an annual report by January 15th. The report should detail the impact of sports wagering on problem gambling demographics in Vermont to ensure the fund is being used effectively.

Vermont Land‑Based Sports Betting

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

ermont operates a strict mobile-only sports wagering model, distinguishing it from most U.S. states. Under current law (Act 63), the state does not license or regulate any land-based sports betting operations. 

This means physical betting lounges, kiosks in bars, and retail sportsbooks are entirely prohibited. There is no venue within the state where a bettor can walk in and place a wager in person.

Instead, all authorized activity occurs through a limited number of state-contracted digital operators, currently including DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Access is strictly controlled via geolocation technology to ensure users are within state lines. 

While neighboring states like New York and Massachusetts utilize 'brick-and-mortar' casinos as anchors for their betting markets, Vermont's model bypasses physical infrastructure entirely. 

This streamlined, digital-first approach reflects the state's focus on low-overhead regulation and high-reach consumer access while maintaining a 'limited footprint' in the physical community.

List of Land-Based Sports Betting Operations in Vermont

As stated above, Vermont does not have locally-operating land-based sports betting establishments. All legal sports wagering in the state is conducted via online/mobile platforms, and none operate brick-and-mortar facilities.

Vermont Online Sports Betting

Status: Legal

Vermont's online sports betting market is fully licensed and regulated. After legislative approval in 2023, the market officially launched in January 2024 with the Vermont Department of Liquor & Lottery overseeing operations. 

Bettors must be at least 21 years old, and platforms use in-state geolocation to ensure compliance. The state's model is digital-only, and registered operators offer a broad selection of sports markets across professional and amateur leagues. 

Moreover, the regulatory framework includes consumer protections, responsible gaming measures, and ongoing compliance requirements for operators. Notably, the online sportsbooks launch has been the most significant expansion of legalized gambling in Vermont in decades. This marked a shift from the state's traditionally restrictive approach.

List of Online Sports Betting Operations in Vermont

DraftKings Sportsbook

Operator: DraftKings Inc.

DraftKings was among the first operators to launch in Vermont on January 11, 2024. As a Boston-based company, it maintains a massive footprint in the New England region and currently holds a significant share of the Vermont market. Under its contract with the DLL, DraftKings pays a 31% revenue share to the state.

The platform provides a highly-rated mobile app for iOS and Android that is known for its "Betting Pools" and deep integration with the DraftKings Dynasty Rewards program. It offers extensive markets on professional and collegiate sports. 

Moreover, it adheres to Vermont's strict prohibition on in-state college team betting (outside of tournaments) and individual college player props.

FanDuel Sportsbook

Operator: Flutter Entertainment

FanDuel entered the Vermont market at launch and is currently the state's largest revenue contributor due to its 33% revenue share agreement with the DLL. This is the highest revenue share among the three operators.  

Additionally, FanDuel is frequently cited by Vermont users for having the most intuitive user interface. They also mention that FanDuel has the most robust "Same Game Parlay" (SGP) features.

The FanDuel app is accessible to anyone 21 or older within Vermont state lines. In 2026, it remains a leader in live, in-game wagering and offers specialized "FanDuel TV" integration within the app. This allows users to stream select sporting events directly while managing their wagers.

Fanatics Sportsbook

Operator: Fanatics Betting and Gaming (FBG)

Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Vermont as part of its national expansion following the acquisition of PointsBet's U.S. operations. Like DraftKings, Fanatics operates under a 31% revenue share agreement. It has distinguished itself in the Green Mountain State by leveraging its massive sports merchandise ecosystem.

The primary draw for the Fanatics platform is the "FanCash" loyalty program. This allows Vermont bettors to earn a percentage of every wager back as credit. In turn, the credit can be used to purchase team jerseys and apparel or converted into bonus bets. 

Moreover, the app features a personalized "Discover" feed that uses data to suggest bets based on a user's specific team preferences and betting history.

Other Online Sports Betting Options for Vermont Residents

Vermont Land‑Based Casino Gambling

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

Vermont remains one of the few U.S. states without a licensed land-based casino industry. Under current law, both commercial and tribal brick-and-mortar casinos are prohibited, reflecting the state's longstanding focus on a 'limited footprint' model. 

While Vermont legalized mobile sports betting in 2024, that expansion was strictly digital and did not authorize any physical betting lounges or casino floors.

The only exception for in-person 'casino-style' gaming is for nonprofit charitable events (13 V.S.A. § 2143). These 'Casino Nights' are temporary, strictly controlled by the Attorney General, and limited to one event per month for any single organization. 

Prizes are generally capped at $400, ensuring these events remain small-scale fundraisers rather than commercial enterprises. As a result, residents seeking a full-scale casino experience, including table games and slot machines, typically travel to established facilities in Massachusetts, New York, or Quebec.

List of Land-Based Casino Operations in Vermont

As mentioned above, Vermont does not have locally-operating land-based casinos. 

Vermont Online Casino Gambling

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

Vermont does not license, regulate, or permit real-money online casino gambling. Under 13 V.S.A. Chapter 51, the state maintains strict prohibitions against professional gambling and the operation of unauthorized games of chance. 

This means that popular digital casino offerings such as online slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer games remain illegal to operate within state borders. Unlike the state's regulated mobile sports betting market, which launched in January 2024, there is no legislative framework or state-authorized platform for online casino play.

However, residents can access offshore online casinos that market their services to Vermonters. These operators offer generous promos on top of great casino games.

List of Online Casino Operations in Vermont

Vermont does not have locally-operating or licensed online casinos.

Other Online Casino Options for Vermont Residents

Vermont Poker

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

"Vermont does not license or regulate commercial land-based poker rooms. Under state law (13 V.S.A. § 2133), it is illegal to play cards for money in a 'common gaming house' maintained for profit. Consequently, there are no permanent venues or casinos in the state where residents can play poker professionally.

However, poker exists in Vermont through two narrow legal avenues:

• Charitable Gaming: Registered nonprofit organizations may host poker as a 'game of chance' for fundraising. These events are strictly regulated, with prizes generally capped at $400 per game, though once-a-month events can offer up to $5,000.
• Social Home Games: Private, small-stakes games are generally permitted provided they occur in a private residence and the host does not take a 'rake' or profit from the operation of the game.

List of Land-Based Poker Operations in Vermont

As stated above, Vermont does not have locally-operating land-based poker establishments.

Vermont Online Poker

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

Vermont does not license or regulate real-money online poker, and the activity remains prohibited under state gambling statutes. Unlike the state's regulated mobile sports betting market, no legislative framework exists for digital card rooms.

As of 2026, Vermont has not joined the recent regional expansion seen in Maine, which legalized tribal-led online poker in early 2026. Without a state-sanctioned market or membership in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), Vermont players lack the consumer protections and shared player pools found in regulated U.S. jurisdictions.

List of Online Poker Operations in Vermont

As mentioned above, Vermont doesn't have locally-run online poker sites.

Other Online Poker Options for Vermont Residents

Vermont Land‑Based Horse Betting

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

Vermont currently has no active racetracks, Off-Track Betting (OTB) parlors, or licensed land-based horse betting venues. While parimutuel wagering was historically significant, peaking with the operation of Green Mountain Park through 1977, the state's physical racing infrastructure has entirely vanished. 

Furthermore, Vermont law (13 V.S.A. § 2153) expressly prohibits the 'simulcasting' of horse races for public exhibition, effectively preventing the opening of retail betting lounges.

As a result, all legal horse race wagering in the state has transitioned to a digital-only model. Residents utilize Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) platforms, which allow for legal pari-mutuel betting on out-of-state and international tracks via mobile devices.

While the state's 2024 sports betting expansion legalized wagering on 'equestrian events,' this is typically limited to fixed-odds bets on major events. For traditional pari-mutuel daily racing, Vermont remains a 'mobile-first' market with no physical presence."

List of Land‑based Horse Betting Operations in Vermont

Vermont does not have locally-run land-based horse betting operations.

Vermont Online Horse Betting

Status: Not Licensed or Regulated

"While Vermont does not have a state-level licensing system for horse racing, online horse betting is widely available and legal via Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) platforms. These services operate under the federal Interstate Horse Racing Act, allowing Vermont residents to place pari-mutuel wagers on tracks worldwide.

Most residents access these markets through specialized providers like TwinSpires, AmWager, and FanDuel Racing (formerly TVG). It is important to note that even though the Vermont Department of Liquor & Lottery (DLL) regulates mobile sports betting, it does not oversee these dedicated horse racing platforms. 

Therefore, while these apps are reputable and compliant with federal law, they do not carry Vermont-specific consumer protections or state-managed dispute resolution. Users are encouraged to use established, US-based ADW apps rather than offshore sites to ensure financial security and fair play."

List of Online Horse Betting Operations in Vermont

TwinSpires

Operator: Churchill Downs Interactive

Owned and operated by the same company that hosts the Kentucky Derby, TwinSpires is the most established ADW platform in the United States. It provides Vermont residents with access to over 150 racetracks worldwide. 

In 2026, it remains a favorite for "serious" handicappers due to its deep historical data and free "Brisnet" past performance reports for active bettors.

The app provides a professional-grade interface for iOS and Android, focusing on pari-mutuel wagering. Key features include live streaming of races, profit-boost promotions for major events like the Triple Crown. Additionally, the app has a sophisticated "EZ Money" system for instant deposits and withdrawals.

FanDuel Racing

Operator: Flutter Entertainment

Formerly known as TVG, FanDuel Racing is the largest horse betting platform in the country. Because FanDuel already operates a state-licensed sportsbook in Vermont, many residents choose this platform for its familiarity. 

It is unique in that it integrates its specialized horse racing cable network, FanDuel TV, directly into the betting app, allowing users to watch and wager on the same screen.

The platform is designed for both casual fans and experts. It offers a "No Sweat First Bet" for new users and features specialized "Win-Place-Show" pools. 

While it is co-branded with the FanDuel Sportsbook, horse racing still requires a specific racing account due to the pari-mutuel nature of the betting pools.

AmWager

Operator: AmWest Entertainment

AmWager is positioned as the "high-performance" choice for Vermont bettors. It is widely cited in 2026 as the fastest ADW platform on the market. They offer specialized tools like "ABC Wagering" and "Line Customization" that are not found on more casual apps. 

It is particularly popular for players who engage in high-volume wagering or complex "Exotic" bets (Trifectas, Superfectas, etc.).

The platform offers access to nearly 500 tracks and distinguishes itself with a robust rewards program. They provide daily cash back on wagers, regardless of whether the bet wins or loses. 

Moreover, its interface is designed for speed, catering to "last-minute" bettors who need real-time pool updates before the gates open.

NYRA Bets

Operator: New York Racing Association

As the official betting partner of the Belmont Stakes, NYRA Bets is a premium option available to Vermont residents. 

It is known for its high-definition streaming and exclusive access to "NYRA Bets Late Pick 5" pools at New York tracks (Saratoga, Belmont, and Aqueduct). These venues are frequently the highest-paying pools in the country.

The app features a "Play Like a Pro" section with video tutorials and expert analysis from NYRA's broadcast team. For Vermont users, it offers a seamless rewards program that earns points for every dollar wagered. 

They can be redeemed for betting credits or exclusive on-track experiences at New York venues.

Vermont Lotteries

Status: Legal

The Vermont Lottery operates as a state-run system primarily benefiting the Vermont Education Fund. Vermont's lottery contributes approximately $30 to $35 million annually. 

A unique feature of the landscape is Vermont's membership in the Tri-State Lottery Commission (alongside Maine and New Hampshire). This allows the three states to offer shared games like Megabucks, Pick 3, and Pick 4.

Beyond local games, Vermont participates in national draws including Powerball, Mega Millions, and the newly launched Millionaire for Life™ (Feb 2026). Vermont currently mandates that all tickets, including scratch-offs and 'Fast Play' games, be purchased at one of nearly 600 retail locations. However, the 2026 legislative session is considering Bill H.669. 

This bill aims to authorize 'iLottery' sales, which would allow residents to purchase tickets and play digital 'eInstants' via a mobile app for the first time. Currently, players must be at least 18 years old to participate.

List of Vermont Lottery Platforms

Vermont Lottery Official App (Retail Utility)

Operator: Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) / Scientific Games

The official Vermont Lottery app currently serves as a digital companion to the state's ~600 retail locations rather than a direct point-of-sale. 

It is the only state-authorized mobile platform for managing lottery activities. Its primary function is to bridge the gap between physical tickets and digital convenience for residents.

The platform provides a "Ticket Checker" feature that allows users to scan physical scratch-offs and draw tickets to see if they are winners. It also hosts the 2nd Chance Program, where players can enter non-winning instant tickets into monthly and quarterly promotional drawings for cash prizes and merchandise.

Vermont Lottery "Play It Again" Web Portal

Operator: Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL)

The web-based portal is the central hub for the lottery's Club Rewards program. While it does not currently sell tickets, it is the only legal digital space where Vermont players can register their identities for high-tier prize claims and second-chance entries.

The site provides real-time updates on "Fast Play" progressive jackpots and remaining top prizes for active scratch-off games. It is also the official source for the "Tri-State" draw results (Megabucks, Gimme 5) shared with Maine and New Hampshire.

iLottery / eInstants Platform (Proposed for July 2026)

Operator: Pending (Likely Scientific Games or IGT)

Introduced via H.669 in January 2026, this proposed platform would be the state's first true online sportsbook-style lottery operator. If passed, it will allow the DLL to sell tickets for Powerball and Mega Millions directly via smartphone, alongside a new library of "eInstants."

The platform is designed to mimic the user experience of modern mobile sportsbooks. This includes a digital wallet, instant-win animations, and account-based responsible gaming tools (such as deposit limits and self-exclusion). 

The state projects this digital-first platform will generate an additional $7 million annually for the Education Fund.

Vermont Sweepstakes

Status: Legal, But with Caveats

"Sweepstakes are legal in Vermont provided they do not require 'consideration'. This means participants cannot be required to pay a fee, make a purchase, or venture anything of value to enter (13 V.S.A. § 2143b). 

Vermont's regulations are notably stricter than federal standards; under Attorney General Rule CF 109, sponsors are prohibited from requiring participants to pay for return postage to obtain entry forms or official rules.

While sweepstakes are permitted, they must not be deceptive regarding the odds of winning, the number of prizes, or their actual retail value. Furthermore, Vermont law distinguishes between sweepstakes (games of chance) and contests of skill. 

While sweepstakes must remain free to enter, skill-based competitions may lawfully charge entry fees. Brands self-regulate these promotions instead of the state. Therefore, Vermont's role focuses on enforcing consumer protection and advertising laws.

Vermont Sweepstakes Casinos

Status: Gray Area

Sweepstakes casinos operate in a legal gray area by utilizing a 'dual-currency' model to comply with Vermont's § 2143b 'no-purchase' requirement. Because they do not require a direct wager of real money to play, they fall outside the definition of illegal gambling. However, they are not licensed or regulated by the Vermont Department of Liquor & Lottery.

While Vermont law does not mandate a specific age for sweepstakes participation, most reputable platforms (such as WOW Vegas, McLuck, or Pulsz) require users to be at least 18 or 21 to redeem prizes. 

These systems allow players to collect 'Sweeps Coins' through daily logins or mail-in requests, which can later be redeemed for cash prizes or gift cards. It is critical for consumers to understand that these operators are not state-sanctioned. This means that they do not undergo state-mandated fairness audits or provide government-backed dispute resolution. 

Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, as some operators choose to block Vermont residents to avoid the state's strict consumer protection oversight.

Vermont Gambling FAQs

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