Responsible gambling
Last revised · facts verified
A casino weekend is meant to be a treat. If gambling stops feeling like one, every province on this page has free, confidential help that answers at any hour.
| Province | Age | Regulator | Helpline | Self-exclusion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 19+ | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) | ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 (any hour, or text CONNEX to 247247) | OLG My PlayBreak: from 3 months up to 5 years, valid at all Ontario casinos |
| Québec | 18+ | Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux (RACJ) | Gambling: Help and Referral 1-800-461-0140 (free, confidential, 24/7) | Loto-Québec self-exclusion: 3 months to 5 years, cannot be undone once signed |
| British Columbia | 19+ | Independent Gambling Control Office (IGCO) | Gambling Support BC 1-888-795-6111 (24/7, no charge) | BCLC Game Break: anywhere from 6 months to 3 years |
| Alberta | 18+ | Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) | Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline 1-866-332-2322 (open 24/7) | AGLC Self-Exclusion: 6 months to 3 years, covering every Alberta casino plus PlayAlberta.ca |
| Manitoba | 18+ | Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA) | Gambling Helpline 1-800-463-1554 (open 24/7) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion covering Casinos of Winnipeg, Shark Club and/or PlayNow.com |
| New Brunswick | 19+ | Gaming Control Branch, Department of Justice and Public Safety | Gambling Information Line 1-800-461-1234 (free and confidential; TTY) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion, arranged through Great Canadian Entertainment |
Four habits for a better weekend
- Fix a budget before you leave home, and leave the cards in the room safe.
- Set a stopping time; casino floors don't hang clocks.
- Losses are the cost of the night, not a debt to win back.
- Break it up — the pool, the spa and the show are the weekend too.
Every province runs voluntary self-exclusion; our age and rules guide covers how it works.