One of the simplest things you can do as an established business owner who provides video gaming areas, is display signs. Yes, I do mean signs specific to video gaming, but also, non-video gaming signs. Displaying an array of signs required by various regulations is very important. Know the difference between the two types of signage required.
Video Gaming Signage
The Illinois Gaming Board requires two specific kinds of signage for licenses establishments. The first sign features three important pieces of information for customers coming into your establishments
- The name and telephone number of your terminal operator’s service department.
- The phone number for gambling-addiction counseling.
- The IGB hotline for reporting potential legal violations.
Now, the second IGB-mandated sign is conditional: If your video gaming establishment admits minors, your VGTs be physically segregated from other areas of your location. This can be done through the use of actual walls or stanchions. A sign clearly stating that minors are not permitted to enter the space containing the machines must be displayed. The IGB also requires that the entrance to your video gaming area be monitored by at least one employee who is 21 years of age or older.
You are not required to have a separate video gaming area or signs designating such if your establishment does not permit minors at any time. Posting signs that inform the public that minors are not allowed is still a good idea and strongly advised.
Non-Video Gaming Signs
Although not mandated directly by the IGB, there are signs that you’ll have to display for being a “pouring” establishment – one that serves alcohol inside your establishment.
Signs that are obligatory, but not related to video gaming include:
- Prohibition of firearms on the premises
- No smoking
- Human trafficking notice
- Warning of the health risks of drinking while pregnant
Your liquor license and Illinois Business Tax certificate should be displayed as well.
Make all these signs clear and visible. When IGB agents visit your establishment, they will take photos of your video gaming area, and these signs will/should show up in most of the pictures taken.
