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BC Betting: Legal and Safe Options
In this guide, I’ll explain all about the legality of betting in British Columbia, focusing mostly on online betting.
By the end, you’ll know who’s in charge of online gambling in the province, who can bet legally, and which websites are safe to access.
Is Betting Legal in BC?
Yes, betting has been legal in British Columbia for decades now — this applies to the entire province, Vancouver included.
The BC Lottery Corporation is responsible for overseeing all betting activities in the province on behalf of the British Columbia government.
They do this through the Gaming Control Act, which is the official legal document dictating what’s legal and what isn’t in the province.
This also includes online betting, despite it being a more recent development. While it’s also legal, it comes with its own set of rules I’ll address below.
Is bet365 Legal in BC?
The provincial government in charge of all the betting activities in the province hasn’t yet decided to open its betting market to international operators.
For you, as a bettor, that means bet365 is accessible to you and a safe betting choice, despite it not being a part of the official government offering.
bet365 has acquired the only Canadian license currently available — that of Ontario’s open market — making it a safe option in British Columbia as well.
What Betting Sites are Currently Legal in BC?
As explained above, since British Columbia doesn’t have an open betting market for international operators, currently the only regulated option for BC bettors remains PlayNow.
That said, dozens upon dozens of international websites remain accessible to British Columbia bettors. Many opt for those instead, as they tend to offer more sports, more betting markets, and overall better odds.
However, not all of them are equally safe.
In my guide about the best BC betting sites (where I also compare international and provincial ones), I only feature those with an iGaming Ontario betting license, as this gives the brand an additional layer of trustworthiness.
Safe International Operators Available in BC
Why Hasn’t BC Opened Its Betting Market Yet?
So far, there hasn’t been much talk about British Columbia opening its betting borders. Apart from Alberta and Quebec, no other province has expressed the wish to join Ontario in accepting international operators.
That said, being the sixth most populated province in Canada, British Columbia boasts plenty of potential bettors.
By opening its market and making sure only trustworthy international operators are accessible, British Columbia would not only likely benefit financially the way Ontario has since opening its own market, but it would also make sure its bettors are protected from sketchy foreign websites.
When Will BC Create a Market for International Operators?
Whether BC decides to take this step remains to be seen. For now, there are no indicators of it happening, but if anything new comes to light, I’ll be sure to update you ASAP!
Who Can Legally Bet in British Columbia?
In order to bet in BC, you need to be physically present in the province and at least 19 years of age. Much as is the case with Ontario and Quebec, you’ll need to install a geolocation tool to bet online from BC.
This helps sportsbooks ensure you’re in the location you claimed to be from when you signed up and verified your account. It serves to prevent anyone from taking over your account and betting with your funds.
FAQ
What is the legal age for sports betting in British Columbia?
To bet from BC, you need to be at least 19 years old.
Who regulates gambling in British Columbia?
All gambling and betting in British Columbia is regulated by the BC Lottery Corporation.
Can you use bet365 in BC?
Yes, bet365 is available and accessible from British Columbia, and it’s a safe betting option for BC bettors.
Is Betway legal in BC?
While British Columbia doesn’t have an open market for international operators, Betway is one of the brands that are safe and accessible for BC bettors.
Is sports betting legal in BC?
Yes, sports betting is legal in British Columbia and has been since 1985.
Is sports betting legal in Vancouver?
Sports betting is legal all across British Columbia, which includes Vancouver as well.
