The regulation of gambling in Spain has undergone a significant evolution over the past decade, marked by a stronger focus on public health, responsible gaming, and the protection of minors. At the national level, Law 13/2011 on gambling regulation and Royal Decree 958/2020 have established a solid framework for control and commercial communication.
However, in regions such as Andalusia, this trend has intensified with the approval of specific regional laws, such as Decree 144/2017, and particularly with its amendment through Decree 161/2021, which imposes stricter rules on the operation of gaming halls, betting shops, bingo halls, and land-based casinos.
Below, we analyze how these laws are impacting the structure, development, and day-to-day operations of Spain’s land-based gaming industry, both nationally and regionally.
National legislation: a common foundation for the industry
This legislation applies mainly to operators with a national license to offer online gambling: online casinos, online sportsbooks, online poker, and more. It does not apply directly to land-based operators such as bingo halls, gaming salons, betting shops, or casinos, which are regulated by each autonomous community — as is the case in Andalusia.
While national laws establish general principles and best practices, regional regulation sets the specific conditions for land-based gaming.
Law 13/2011 on gambling regulation
This law marked the beginning of comprehensive gambling regulation in Spain. While its main focus is the online environment, it also laid the foundations for the broader legal framework covering all economic gambling activities. Its main objectives include:
- Protecting consumers, particularly minors and vulnerable individuals.
- Preventing addictive behaviors linked to gambling.
- Ensuring transparency, integrity, and security in gambling activities.
Royal Decree 958/2020 on commercial communications
Although aimed at online gambling, Royal Decree 958/2020 has also influenced land-based gambling by imposing strict advertising restrictions. Key measures include:
- Advertising allowed only between 1:00 and 5:00 am.
- Complete ban on sponsorships in sports events and team jerseys.
- Prohibition of promotional bonuses visible to the general public.
These rules indirectly affect land-based gaming, making it more difficult to promote new physical establishments or build brand visibility through sports and social events.
Regional legislation: the case of Andalusia
Decree 144/2017: the original framework
Approved by the Andalusian government, this decree regulated the organization and operation of land-based gaming venues. Key provisions included:
- Licensing for gaming halls, bingo halls, casinos, and betting shops.
- Technical and safety standards.
- Structural and operational requirements for establishments.
While it provided a clear framework, it also allowed a significant expansion of these businesses, particularly in urban areas.
Decree 161/2021: a turning point
This amendment introduced a more restrictive approach. Its most notable measures include:
📍 Minimum distance from educational centers
- A minimum of 150 meters between gaming venues and schools.
- Minimum distances between venues to avoid clustering.
🛂 Mandatory access control
- All establishments must implement automated access control systems.
- Entry denied to minors and self-excluded individuals.
- Real-time identity verification required.
🕐 Operating hours regulation
- The regional government may restrict or suspend opening hours for public interest reasons.
- Increased monitoring and enforcement of schedules and licensing.
🚫 Outdoor advertising restrictions
- Ban on flashy signs, posters, or visible promotions from public streets.
- No advertising targeting minors or vulnerable audiences.
- No use of public figures linked to sports events on which bets are allowed.
Consequences for the land-based industry
The new regulations are reshaping the sector in several ways:
- Slower pace of openings due to urban planning and licensing restrictions.
- Higher operating costs, especially for compliance and technology.
- Greater challenges in attracting new customers, given advertising limits.
- Increased professionalism and oversight, aligned with responsible gaming principles.
Although many operators have had to adapt quickly, this shift has also created opportunities to stand out through service quality, legal compliance, and transparency.
Conclusion
The tightening of gambling laws in Spain and Andalusia reflects a growing social demand for responsibility and prevention. While it represents a challenge for the business sector, it also opens the door to a more sustainable, ethical, and controlled model.
The operators that adapt and evolve within this new reality will be the ones to thrive in the long run, consolidating their position as a safe, responsible, and legally compliant leisure option.