This license allows one raffle event with multiple prize drawings on the same day and at the same location. An applicant can get up to four of these licenses in a calendar year.
Fee: $20.00
Raffle or Poker Run Licenses
No individual, company, or organization may host a raffle, sell raffle tickets, or organize a poker run within the City of Mt. Vernon, Illinois without first obtaining a license.
What License Do I Need?
There are four different licenses available. Read about each license below and find out which license will work best for you.
A raffle license allows the holder to sell raffle tickets anywhere in Illinois, even outside the city. Online sales of raffle tickets are allowed, but they can only be sold to individuals within the state.
A poker run license permits the event only within the city's boundaries, at locations specified in the license application. The license for the primary poker run location covers the entire event, including predetermined locations, if their details are included in the application.
These licenses are exclusively granted to legitimate non-profit organizations, such as religious, charitable, labor, business, fraternal, educational, veterans' groups, or organizations providing financial assistance to those in extreme financial hardship due to illness, disability, accident, or disaster. Law enforcement agencies and related statewide associations are also eligible. In some cases, the 5-year continuous existence requirement may be waived for local organizations affiliated with national or state organizations that meet this requirement.
Each license authorizes the sale of raffle tickets or the organization of a poker run only on the dates specified in the license application. Please review the full ordinance for additional details and specific requirements for each type of license.
How To Apply
You can download and submit a completed license application by email or in person to the City Clerks Office located inside City Hall. Please ensure you attach all the required documents and fees in order to process your application in a timely manner. The application will be reviewed and if approved, a license will be issued.
Click on the license below for fee information. If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerk's Office.
Hardship Assistance Raffle License
This is for not-for-profit organizations aiming to help individuals facing financial hardship due to injury, disability, accidents, or disasters. It permits one raffle for this specific purpose.
Fee: $20.00
This license allows unlimited raffles with a maximum prize value of $5,000 for each raffle. It's valid from May 1 to April 30 the following year.
Fee: $20.00
This license permits one poker run event, and an applicant can get up to four of these licenses in a calendar year.
Fee: $20.00
Contact Information
City Clerk Office
1100 Main Street
Mt. Vernon, IL 68264
Phone: (618) 242-6815
Fax: (618) 242-6867
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Mary Jo Pemberton
City Clerk
Email: city.clerk@mtvernon.com
Becky Barbour
Deputy City Clerk
Email: becky.barbour@mtvernon.com