DeKalb Approves City-Run Raffle and Poker Run Licensing

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The DeKalb City Council has approved a new chapter in the Municipal Code that creates a city-run licensing program for raffles and poker runs. The program transfers licensing from the County Clerk back to the city due to the increasing number and complexity of local events. Licenses will be limited to nonprofit and hardship organizations and carry minimal fees from $10 to $50 to cover administrative costs. The City Manager's Office will administer the program, with a start date of March 1, 2026.

Why it matters

This move by the DeKalb City Council aims to streamline the licensing process for local nonprofit and community organizations hosting raffles and poker runs, which have become more common in the area. By bringing the licensing in-house, the city can better manage the growing number of these events and ensure they are properly regulated.

The details

The new licensing program will require all raffles and poker runs held within the city limits of DeKalb to obtain a license from the City Manager's Office. Licenses will be limited to nonprofit organizations and those facing financial hardship, with fees ranging from $10 to $50 to cover administrative costs. The city hopes this will make the process more efficient and accessible for local groups compared to the previous county-run system.

• The DeKalb City Council approved the new licensing program on February 12, 2026.
• The program will go into effect on March 1, 2026.

What’s next

The city will begin accepting license applications for raffles and poker runs on March 1, 2026 when the new program goes into effect.