Wisconsin law permits tribal gaming and licensed charitable bingo and raffles. Any activity that involves the elements of consideration, prize, and chance is gambling and illegal unless authorized by Wisconsin Law.
Consideration is required payment with anything of value; cash, canned items, and so on. This cannot be circumvented by placing “donation” or “suggested donation” on tickets as this would means you do not require payment or a donation in order to be entered into the drawing.
Prize is anything of value; this includes money, gift cards, property, parking stalls, and anything tangible.
Chance is anything a purchaser has no control over; drawing, spinning a wheel, deck of cards, and so on. Please see “what types of drawing methods…” and “what about casino nights…” for further information.
An activity that does not involve the awarding of a prize or does not involve any form of payment (consideration) to participate is not gambling. However other laws pertaining to sweepstakes and sales tax may apply.