Driving requires a license, owning a business requires a permit—so do you need a license to own a claw machine? Tatsächlich, the answer isn’t a simple “Ja” oder “no.”
In diesem Artikel, we’ll dive into the licensing and certification requirements for claw machines in the U.S. und Europa. Whether you’re distributing machines or operating them in your venue, keep in mind that each region has its own set of rules you’ll need to follow. We’ll break down everything you need to know to keep your claw machines compliant and avoid any legal pitfalls.
Why You Need Claw Machine License Requirements
Operating a claw machine business, whether for arcade settings, Einkaufszentren, or even parties and events, is not as simple as placing a machine in a location and hoping for the best. Governments require that these machines meet specific standards to ensure safety, fairness, and to avoid any potential risks to the public.
In addition to safety standards, licenses also regulate gambling-related activities. Some claw machines may be considered a form of gambling if they require a financial stake with uncertain odds of winning. Also, understanding whether your machines need a license isn’t just a matter of legal requirements—it’s a crucial step in maintaining a reputable, law-abiding business.
License Requirements for Operating Claw Machines in the U.S.
Operating a claw machine in the U.S. involves navigating both federal and local government regulations. While the federal government sets overarching rules, state and even city-level regulations often have more specific requirements. Below are the main considerations for anyone looking to operate claw machines in the U.S.
Which States Require a License?
In the U.S., licensing requirements for claw machines vary widely by state and local jurisdiction. Below is an overview of key states and their specific regulations:
- Kalifornien
California treats claw machines with particular scrutiny. Under California Penal Code Section 330b, claw machines can be classified as gambling devices, subject to stringent regulations. Operators need to obtain a gaming license, which can cost up to $300 pro Maschine, along with mandatory annual safety inspections. Violations of these regulations can result in hefty fines.
- New York
In New York State, business licenses are required for operating claw machines. New York City has additional, more detailed rules, including obtaining a certificate of occupancy, significant liability insurance (bis zu $2.5 Million Anleihe), and passing electrical and building inspections. The city’s regulations also restrict cash prizes, mandate clear game rules, and impose time restrictions for minors.
- Florida
Florida requires state licenses for amusement devices like claw machines, along with regular inspections. Operators must also maintain liability insurance of at least $1 Million. The state enforces strict penalties for unfair setups, with fines up to $10,000 for non-compliance.
- Texas
In Texas, no state-specific license is required for claw machines, but operators must adhere to local rules. For private events generating over $500, a temporary license may be necessary.
- Michigan
In Michigan, claw machines must undergo annual state inspections to check factors like claw strength and game duration. Inspection fees typically range from $200 Zu $500 pro Maschine.
Every state has its own set of rules, and local laws can make a big difference. Make sure to verify the regulations in your state and city before moving forward.
Federal vs. Local Government Regulations
On the federal level, there is no single national law that governs claw machines. Jedoch, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (Ftc) does regulate “prize devices,” which include claw machines. These regulations require that machines cannot be deceptive and that players have a fair chance of winning based on their skill or luck.
Local governments, auf der anderen Seite, are the primary authorities for issuing business licenses and gaming permits for claw machine operations. If you’re planning to place a machine in a shopping mall or arcade, local authorities will likely require that the machine be inspected for safety and fairness. It’s essential to consult with local authorities before installing a machine in a new location.
Steps and Documentation Needed to Apply for a License
To apply for a license, you will typically need to provide the following documentation:
- Business Registration: Proof of your business entity, whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship.
- Machine Details: Specifications of the claw machine, including its make, model, and payout mechanism.
- Location Details: Information about where the machine will be placed and the nature of the business (Arkade, Einkaufszentrum, usw.).
- Background Check: Some states may require a criminal background check to ensure the operator is trustworthy.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements for Claw Machines in Europe
Like in the U.S., Europe also has stringent rules when it comes to the licensing and operation of claw machines. Jedoch, the regulatory framework across European countries is not uniform. Regulations differ not only between countries but sometimes even between regions within the same country. Here’s a breakdown of the general compliance requirements for claw machine operators in Europe.
Common Requirements Across the EU
Im Allgemeinen, most European countries require claw machines to meet certain safety and fairness standards. The European Union Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC) ensures that machines must be safe for the public. This directive lays out the minimum safety standards that all machines sold within the EU must meet. These standards cover electrical safety, mechanical safety, and product labeling, among other factors.
Zusätzlich, claw machines must follow the European Gambling Regulations, which are designed to prevent the machines from functioning like gambling devices. Machines that rely solely on chance to determine winners may be classified as gaming machines and subject to additional licensing requirements.
Country-Specific Regulations
In Europa, the licensing and regulatory requirements for claw machines vary by country, with each having its own rules and safety standards. Here are some key examples:
- Vereinigtes Königreich
In the UK, claw machines fall under the jurisdiction of the Gambling Commission. The machines must comply with the Gaming Act 1968 and subsequent legislation, ensuring they are skill-based and not classified as gambling devices. Operators must provide fair play and transparency, with prizes limited to merchandise only (no cash or vouchers). Machines also require regular inspections to ensure they meet safety standards set by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive.
- Deutschland
In Germany, claw machines are regulated under the German Gaming Ordinance (Spielverordnung). Operators must register with local authorities and ensure that machines do not function purely on chance. Zusätzlich, prize limits are imposed, with prizes valued at no more than €5 for each game.
- France
In France, claw machines must comply with the Code of Public Health. Operators must ensure that the machines are inspected annually for safety and compliance with gaming laws. Außerdem, any gaming device offering prizes exceeding €100 requires a specific gaming license.
- Italy
In Italy, claw machines are governed by the AAMS (Autonomous Administration of State Monopolies). Machines must be registered with AAMS, undergo annual inspections, and adhere to fairness regulations. Zusätzlich, Italian law mandates that prize values cannot exceed €5 per game.
Laws vary by country, and local regulations add complexity. Always double-check the specific requirements in your region before operating claw machines.
Licensing Process in Europe
To legally operate claw machines in Europe, you need to follow these general steps:
- Apply for a Business License: Depending on the country or region, this may involve registering with the local chamber of commerce or business authority.
- Obtain a Gambling License (gegebenenfalls): If your machine qualifies as a gaming device, you’ll need to apply for a gaming license from the relevant authority.
- Meet Safety and Compliance Standards: Your claw machine will need to pass safety inspections to ensure it meets EU standards and any local regulations.
- Display Necessary Documentation: Some countries require that certain certifications or permits be visibly posted on the machine itself.
UNS. vs. European Certification for Claw Machines: A Compliance Checklist
To make sure your claw machines are compliant, here’s a quick comparison of the certification and licensing requirements in the U.S. und Europa:
| Certification | Required in the U.S. | Required in Europe (EU) | Purpose | Schlüsselunterschiede |
| UL (Underwriters Laboratories) | ✅ | ❌ | Ensures electrical and fire safety | UNS.: Required for electrical safety testing. Europa: Not mandatory; CE certification is required. |
| CE (Conformité Européenne) | ❌ | ✅ | Ensures product meets EU health, Sicherheit, and environmental requirements | UNS.: Not applicable. Europa: Required for market entry. |
| Rohs (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) | ❌ | ✅ | Restricts the use of hazardous materials in electrical equipment | UNS: Not required by federal law. Europa: Mandatory for electrical and electronic products. |
| FCC (Federal Communications Commission) | ✅ | ❌ | Regulates electromagnetic interference | UNS: Required for devices that emit radio waves. Europa: CE takes care of EMF regulation. |
| WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) | ❌ | ✅ | Ensures proper disposal of electronic waste | UNS: Not required. Europa: Required to comply with recycling laws. |
Legality of Claw Machines: How to Avoid Legal Risks
A common question is, “Sind Klauenautomaten Glücksspiel?” Some regions require that machines offer a specific payout percentage—if it’s too low or manipulated, the machine may be considered a gambling device. Operators should ensure their machines comply with these rules and consider offering clear payout structures that highlight skill-based elements. Zum Beispiel, some locations set rules like, “10 coins for a guaranteed win,” to clarify fairness and build trust with players.
Aside from gambling concerns, other legal risks and mistakes you should avoid, include failing to display clear game rules and pricing information can also get you into trouble. Many establishments now post specific guidelines, such as offering a certain number of attempts per price or clearly stating that staff can help if a prize is out of reach. Such transparency can reduce misunderstandings and encourage players to engage without fear of hidden risks.
Insurance Requirements: Protecting Your Claw Machine Business
Claw machine operators are also required to have insurance to protect against potential risks such as theft, damage, or injury. Insurance requirements vary, but most businesses will need:
- General Liability Insurance: Covers accidents or injuries related to your machine.
- Property Insurance: Protects against theft or damage to your machines.
- Business Interruption Insurance: Covers lost income if your machine is out of service.
When selecting an insurance plan, Berücksichtigen Sie die folgenden Faktoren:
- Standort: Your insurance needs may vary depending on whether your machines are in a high-traffic area or more isolated locations.
- Machine Value: High-end machines may need more coverage.
- Risk Factors: If your machine is in a high-risk location (Z.B., eine Spielhalle), you might need more comprehensive coverage.
Future Trends in Claw Machine Compliance and Regulation
As technology evolves, so too do regulatory frameworks for claw machines. The rise of smart claw machines, integrating mobile apps and digital payment systems, could prompt new regulations on data privacy and fairness audits.
Experts predict that future regulations will increasingly focus on ensuring that these machines remain transparent, gerecht, and non-exploitative, particularly as they become more integrated with digital technologies and player tracking systems. As such, operators should expect evolving rules around game mechanics and consumer protection in the coming years.
Compliance is the Foundation of Successful Claw Machine Operations
Adhering to legal regulations is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting both players and operators. Whether you’re in the U.S., Europa, or elsewhere, compliance with local laws is the first step to running a successful claw machine business.
Choosing high-quality machines that meet local safety and payout standards ensures a reliable, fair gaming experience. Tongru machines are designed to exceed these requirements, providing long-term value and trust. Contact us today to take your business to the next level.
