Iowa Gambling and Lotteries Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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Welcome to FindLaw's gambling and lotteries law section for Iowans and visitors to the Hawkeye State. Betting on sports, games of chance, and other forms of gambling are regulated primarily at the state level, although the federal government authorizes the establishment of casinos on Native American reservations. Iowa law allows gambling on horse racing, dog racing, and on excursion boats (where slot machines are also legal). The only land-based casinos allowed in Iowa are those located on Native American reservations. Iowa also operates an official state lottery, which is used to fund a variety of public programs and entertainment initiatives.