According to California Penal Code § 2900, “Gambling” refers to “the placing of any bet or wager, with the understanding that the bet or wager may be won or lost.” Roulette is considered gambling under California law, as is any game of chance with an ante.
It is illegal to gamble in California without a license.
The legality of roulette in California has been the subject of debate for many years. In 1961, the California Supreme Court upheld a law that made it illegal to place bets on any game of chance without a license from the state.
This ruling was based on the argument that such games were inherently gambling activities and should be regulated accordingly.
However, in 2003, the California Court of Appeal overturned this law on the grounds that it was unconstitutional to restrict people’s freedom to gamble. This decision has led to much confusion about the legality of roulette in California, as there is no clear ruling on the matter.
