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Maine Online Gambling and Top Casinos (2024)

Posted by Dave Consolazio . Last updated:

Gambling in Maine

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Maine has relatively progressive laws when it comes to in-person gambling. Land-based casinos, state lottery, and sports betting are all legal here. 

In 2003, the state legalized slot machines at racetracks (which later extended to casinos as well). Then, in 2011, table games also became legal at regulated casino locations. The state launched legal sports betting in November 2023.

Currently, Sports betting is the only form of online gambling regulated in the state. Online casinos, on the other hand, remain in a legal gray area. 

This page details the legality of Maine’s most popular forms of gambling and where to play.

Top Casinos for Maine
Top Casino Bonuses for Maine
Maine Gambling Laws
Pros & Cons of Gambling in Maine
Conclusion & FAQ

Summary of ME Gambling Laws

Many types of gambling are legal in Maine. Sports betting, slots, table games, pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, charity bingo, and lottery are all available to residents and visitors of ME.

Regarding online gambling, you can find state-regulated sports betting. However, if you seek casino games, only offshore sites are available. The state has yet to regulate this type of gaming. 

The table below offers a quick summary of what is legal per Maine’s current gambling laws.

GamblingMaine
Is Online Gambling Legal?Gray Area
Playing at Online CasinosGray Area
Legal Age Online18+
Land-Based CasinosYes
Legal Age Land-Based18 – 21+
Online Sports BettingYes
Charitable GamblingYes
State LotteryYes
Social GamingYes

ME residents have access to plenty of legal gambling options.

The Pine Tree State has two live casinos with slot machines, table games, and live and simulcast betting on horse racing. For now, the only form of state-regulated online gambling in Maine is sports betting.

GamblingMaine Legal Status
Casino GamblingCasino gambling is legal at Maine’s two licensed retail casino locations. There are no tribal casinos in ME.
PokerThere was one legal poker room at the Hollywood Casino in Bangor, but it is closed until further notice. Poker players looking for a game must use an online site operating outside the state.
Horse Racing BettingBetting on horse racing is legal. Bettors can place wagers during live harness racing events or on simulcast horse racing around the nation at approved off-track betting locations.
Dog Racing BettingMaine passed a law to prohibit all forms of dog racing betting in 1993.
LotteryThe ME Lottery was founded in 1974 and can be played by anyone at least 18 years old.
Daily Fantasy SportsDaily Fantasy Sports has officially been legal since August 2023.
Sports BettingSports betting is legal in Maine. Wagers on sports can be placed in person at approved retail locations or online using state-regulated sportsbooks.
Charitable GamingCharitable bingo games can be run by non-profit organizations that have received a license from the state.
Social GamblingSocial gambling is allowed as long as no one is making a profit or gaining anything of value other than as a player.
Online GamblingThe only form of online gambling regulated by the state is sports betting. Online casinos remain in a legal gray area as the state’s law doesn’t address them. 

Players interested in other types of online gambling must use an online casino site that operates outside of the jurisdiction of Maine.

Best Online Casinos for Maine Players in 2024

We’ve compiled a list of the best online casinos accepting new Maine players in 2024. Each site has a license in countries that allows providers to operate legally and offer their games to ME residents.

Where to Gamble in Maine

The Pine Tree State has various retail locations that allow legal gambling, including casinos, race tracks, and off-track betting locations.

State-regulated sportsbooks are available for placing sports bets online, and reputable offshore casinos give ME residents a safe option for playing slots, table games, and poker online.

This section includes additional details on where to gamble in Maine.

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Land-Based Casinos in Maine

There are two legal and active land-based casinos in Maine:

  • Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor (which started off as a racetrack)
  • Oxford Casino Hotel in Oxford

Voters approved the Maine Slot Machines at Commercial Horse Racetracks Initiative in 2003 to pave the way for legal slot machines. An amendment was added to this law in 2011 to allow these approved casino locations to offer table games.

Green icon showing outline of a racing horse's head with bridle and reins

Horse & Dog Tracks

There are two active horse tracks that host live harness races every year:

  • Hollywood Casino Bangor in Bangor
  • First Tracks Cumberland in Cumberland,

These two locations and a handful of approved off-track betting shops offer legal betting on Maine’s harness races and interstate simulcast horse racing.

Betting on dog racing is not permitted in ME.

soccer ball with a hand

Online Sports Betting

Governor Janet Mills signed LD 585 into law in May 2022 to give tribes in Maine the authority to control mobile sports betting.

Online sports betting launched over a year later, in November 2023, and is legal at state-approved mobile sportsbooks.

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Bingo Halls and Charitable Gambling

Charitable bingo (also referred to as beano) games run by licensed non-profit organizations are legal statewide.

The top single prize for a game of charitable bingo can be at most $400 in value, and the total amount of all prizes awarded at one event may be at most $1,400.

three poker cards

Social Gaming at Home

The law does not consider social gaming as a form of “unlawful gambling” per Title 17-A §952 of the state’s criminal code.

The game is permitted as long as no one besides the players in the game stands to gain anything of value.

icon real money poker

Poker Rooms and Clubs

Maine’s only legal live poker room operated at Hollywood Casino before it closed indefinitely in 2020 during COVID-19 shutdowns.

Even when it was open, games were minimal, with only four tables available.

Poker players looking for a matchup can either play social games at home or online poker at sites outside of ME.

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Eight-Liners

The slot machines at ME’s two state-approved casinos are the state’s only legal electronic gambling devices.

Illegal gambling machines like eight-liners are not allowed or commonly found here.

Real Money Online Casino Games in ME

You can also enjoy the fun and excitement of playing casino games at brick-and-mortar casinos from your computer or mobile device.

Learn more about the most popular real money online casino games for Maine players below.

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Online Slots

Every spin on a slot machine can result in a bonus feature or a jackpot.

Slots have been trendy in the state since they became legal in 2003. Nowadays, players can enjoy the thrill of playing these games without traveling to a land-based casino.

Online slots on offshore sites give players access to a large variety of games that function the same way as in-person slots do.

For example, our top recommended online casinos have games with features and bonuses in a fishing theme that should appeal to many players.

three poker cards

Online Poker

Live poker has not been available in Maine since Hollywood Casino shut down its four-table poker room in 2020. Players looking for a game can always find one at an online poker site regulated outside of ME.

You can play No-Limit Hold ’em cash games and tournaments on one of the largest online poker networks in the world.

A vast player pool ensures that you will never have trouble finding a game at your preferred stakes facing other players from Maine and worldwide. Other popular games like Texas Hold’em and Omaha are also available!

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Blackjack

Playing online blackjack gives players access to game variants they won’t always find at retail locations.

These versions of “21” include single-deck, double-deck, and the perfect pairs bonus game.

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Live Dealer Games

While digital versions of table games online are great for most players, some players miss being able to see and interact with the dealer.

Thanks to live dealer games, a real casino experience is possible when playing on your computer or mobile device.

Popular live dealer games include roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and Super 6.

Players can watch the dealer spin the wheel or deal the cards in real-time and chat with them using the live software chat box.

Other Available Games at Maine Online Casinos

The games above are just a tiny sample of the wide range of options gamblers in ME have.

Find out more about some of the other exciting games available at online casinos today.

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Roulette

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Keno

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Bingo

Two white craps dice

Craps

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Baccarat

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Scratch Cards

Top Bonuses at Gambling Sites for Maine Players

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ME Online Gambling Laws

Gambling laws in Maine are generally player-friendly. There are multiple land-based locations, including race tracks, casinos, and off-track betting locations.

ME’s two retail casinos have slot machines and table games available.

The state’s online gambling laws favor sports as daily fantasy sports and sports betting on mobile devices are legal. The legislation that made sports betting legal in 2022 did not include online casinos and poker rooms.

Cards, Chips, and Dices icon

Is Online Gambling Legal in Maine?

Sports betting and daily fantasy sports are legal using state-approved operators.

The Pine Tree State has no laws that expressly prohibit residents from playing at online casinos operating offshores outside of the state’s jurisdiction.

And since the state’s laws against unlawful gambling focus on the person or entity profiting from gambling as opposed to the player, there is no legal precedent for online gambling being an issue.

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Unlawful Gambling is Illegal in Maine

Any person intentionally profiting from unlawful gambling activity is guilty of a Class D misdemeanor, according to Title 17 of ME Criminal Code.

This crime can jump to a Class B felony in the event of aggravated unlawful gambling, which includes taking over $500 in sports bets or over $1,000 in other gambling enterprises in 24 hours.

Exception: Social Gambling is not a form of unlawful gambling. You can not profit from gambling in the form of a rake for hosting a game, but doing so as a player in a social game is permitted.

slot machine icon

Licensed Slot Machines are Allowed in ME

Slot machines are allowed at Maine’s two legal casinos, with one being a stand-alone casino and one also serving as a horse racetrack (also known as a racino). These two locations may operate up to 1,500 slot machines each at any time.

According to Maine Criminal Code Title 8, slots must have a minimum average daily aggregate payback percentage of 89% for all machines every quarter.

a green football, soccer ball, and basketball

Online Sports Betting is Permitted

State-approved operators can legally accept sports bets online.

In-person race tracks, casinos, and off-track betting shops can also apply for a facility sports wagering license to offer on-site sports betting.

Disclaimer

Please be advised that the information provided on this page does not constitute legal advice. Our team strongly recommends you seek professional counsel from a qualified attorney regarding your specific questions or concerns on the topic.

Maine Online Gambling vs. Neighboring States

Maine shares borders with Canada to the north and New Hampshire to the south.

While New Hampshire is the only state with which Maine shares a border, Vermont and Massachusetts could also be considered neighboring states, given their proximity to the United States’ northeast region.

The table below summarizes online gambling laws in the Pine Tree State and how they compare to these neighbors.

US StatePlaying at Online CasinosState Regulated CasinosSocial CasinosOnline Sports BettingLotteryFantasy SportsCharitable Gaming
MaineGray AreaNot LegalLegalLegalLegalLegalLegal
New HampshireGray AreaLegal*LegalLegalLegalLegalLegal
VermontGray AreaNot LegalLegalLegalLegalLegalLegal
MassachusettsGray AreaLegalLegalLegalLegalLegalLegal

Massachusetts and Maine each have legal land-based casinos. New Hampshire has no commercial casinos but limited in-person casino options due to the state’s charitable gaming laws that allow table games and select electronic machines.

There is no form of retail casino gambling in Vermont.

The legal status of online gambling is very similar in all four of these states. State-regulated online sports betting is available in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts, while online casino gaming and poker are not.

ME Residents and all of its neighboring states must use online casinos operating offshores outside of their state’s jurisdiction for mobile slots and table games.

Learn More About US Online Gambling

Tips When Playing at Online Casinos in Maine Safely

There are currently no state-regulated casino options in Maine. Fortunately, players can access many safe and secure offshore online casino sites, including the ones highlighted on this page.

Follow the tips below to ensure that your experience playing at an online site is fun and engaging.

safe casino icon

Confirm Game Transparency

The top online casinos prioritize transparency, furnishing detailed game information, including game rules, expected returns, and software developer details.

Check information pages for various casino games to ensure transparency.

Computer Outline With Green Engine Inside

Verify SSL Encryption

Prioritize security by ensuring the chosen online casino utilizes Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption or similar technologies.

This guarantees the safeguarding of personal and payment data.

icon banker green

Consider Banking Choices

Evaluate deposit and withdrawal methods provided by online casinos.

Confirm that the site has your preferred banking options before finalizing your decision.

icon banking methods

Look For Responsible Gambling

Prioritize your well-being by selecting casinos promoting responsible gambling practices.

Look for features like self-imposed limits and access to help websites to ensure a safe and enjoyable gambling experience.

a green safety & security badge with a check mark in the center

Investigate Licensing

Check the casino’s licensing status in its operating country. If information is elusive, contact customer service for comprehensive regulatory insights.

Pros & Cons of Gambling in Maine

Legal in-person casinos, live harness races, and social gambling highlight the state’s friendly betting environment.

However, there is room for improvement, including the state’s limitations regarding online gambling.

Here are some of the top pros and cons to consider about gambling in Maine.

Pros

  • Sports betting is legal online and at some retail locations as well.
  • Offshore online casinos offer safe casino gaming and online poker to ME residents.
  • Social gambling on poker and other games is permitted.
  • Retail casinos feature slots and popular table games.
  • Betting on horse racing is legal at race tracks and off-track betting shops, and Maine even has two active harness race tracks.

Cons

  • There are no active live poker rooms.
  • In-person casino gaming is limited to only two casinos statewide.

The Future of Online Gambling in Maine: Our Prediction

Legalizing slot machines in 2003 was a significant turning point for gambling in Maine.

The Hollywood racetrack added slots soon after it became legal to do so, and in 2011, table games also became legal.

The Oxford Casino opened in June 2012 to give ME another in-person casino option with the state’s existing race tracks and off-track betting locations. In 2023, sports betting was launched online and at retail locations.

Online casinos and poker rooms are not yet legal in Maine. A bill first proposed in 2023, LD 1777, aims to expand online gambling to include casinos and poker.

It’s too early to tell if this bill will get the support it needs to become law eventually, but the fact that movement is taking place on this front is promising.

For now, online casinos and poker sites operating outside of Maine are still the best options available. Even if online gaming, in addition to sports betting, were to become legal, it could still take years for lawmakers to iron out the details and for an official launch to follow.

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Maine Online Gambling FAQ

If you still have questions about gambling in ME, browse the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Maine online gambling below.

Maine Online Gambling Laws FAQ

Dave Consolazio

Author

Dave Consolazio has been passionate about writing and sports journalism since his high school years. He has a degree in Broadcast Journalism from USC where he worked with the school’s radio and television stations. His work has been featured in SportsbookReview, Sports Illustrated and SB Nation. Dave’s experience ranges across multiple fields in the gambling industry. You can find his sports, casino, and poker articles in GambleOnline.co.

Disclaimer

As part of our commitment to transparency, it’s important to disclose that this website engages in affiliate marketing. This means that when you click on our links to online casinos and make a purchase or sign up, we may earn a commission.

These commissions contribute to the upkeep of our platform and the creation of valuable content. While we aim to provide accurate and unbiased information, it’s crucial to note that our reviews are not influenced by affiliate partnerships.

Additionally, we advocate for responsible gambling practices and encourage users to gamble responsibly. If you believe you may have a gambling problem, please seek assistance from relevant support services.