Video Game Parlour License
Video Game Parlour License
A video game parlour (also called as a gaming arcade, game centre, or cyber café in some cases) is a recreational facility where people can play a variety of video games for enjoyment, usually for a fee per hour or per session.
Why is the License Required?
Obtaining a license before starting a video game parlour is mandatory under Indian laws for several important reasons. This license acts as a legal permit that protects both the business owner and the public. Here’s why it is necessary:
Legal Compliance
Running a gaming parlour without a valid license is illegal. Local police authorities and municipal corporations regulate such establishments under entertainment-related laws and local regulations. The license ensures that your business operates lawfully.
Prevention of Illegal Activities
Gaming parlours can sometimes be misused for gambling, betting, or other unlawful activities.
A valid license ensures that the authorities can monitor your business to prevent such activities and maintain law and order.
Public Safety
Authorities conduct inspections before granting licenses to verify:
Fire safety arrangements
Emergency exits
Electrical safety
This protects customers from accidents like fires, electrical short circuits, or overcrowding.
Control Over Noise & Disturbances
Video game parlours can cause loud noises or gatherings, potentially disturbing nearby residents or businesses.
A license mandates adherence to:
Noise control rules
Timely opening and closing hours
Peacekeeping regulations
Age Restrictions & Social Safety
Gaming parlours must comply with guidelines related to minors:
Restricting access to certain games
Preventing exploitation of children
The license terms often specify these conditions clearly.
Transparency & Consumer Rights
Licensed parlours provide customers with:
Fair pricing
Clean and safe environment
Proper complaint redressal mechanisms
Tax Compliance & Revenue
Having a valid license also ensures:
Proper taxation under local laws
Contribution to entertainment or trade tax (if applicable)
Protection Against Business Disruption
Licensed businesses enjoy:
Legal recognition
Protection against arbitrary closures by authorities
Eligibility for future expansions or business loans
Required Documents for Video Game Parlour License
- Form for application
- An affidavit fully attested by a Notary Public on non-judicial stamp paper valued at Rs. 10
- Evidence of ownership, such as a lease or rental agreement
- Site/key plan
- Photos of the video game parlour
- The applicant’s photo
- The applicant’s identification (Aadhaar card, voter ID card, DL, passport, or PAN card)
- Application proof of address (Aadhaar card, voter ID card, driver’s license, passport, PAN card, or electricity bill)
- The firm’s GST registration
- Licence for MCD Health Trade
- NOC from the local police from the perspective of law and order
- NOC from the traffic police from the perspective of the traffic
- NOC from the department of electricity
- NOC from the fire department
- The applicant’s CVR
Video Game Parlour License Fees
The licence charge for a video game parlour is only INR 65, and you must pay the same sum when you renew your licence. Credit and debit cards are required for payment.
Video Game Parlour License Validity
The video game parlour licence is good for one year, after which you must renew it for continued use. You will need the following documents for renewal:
- An affidavit needs to be provided.
- Once submitted, the affidavit is sent to the local police for verification.
- Renewal is completed based on verification.
Tips for Smooth Licensing of Video Game Parlour
Securing a Video Game Parlour License can sometimes be a complex process due to multiple approvals and inspections. However, with careful preparation and proactive steps, you can simplify the procedure and avoid delays. Here are some essential tips to help you obtain your license smoothly:
Choose a Legally Approved Premises
Ensure your proposed premises is located in an area where commercial activities and gaming parlours are permitted under local zoning regulations.
Avoid setting up in restricted residential areas without approvals.
Maintain Complete Documentation
Prepare all necessary documents well in advance, including identity proof, premises documents, NOCs, police clearances, and fire safety certificates.
Keep both hard copies and digitally scanned versions ready for online or offline submission.
Obtain No Objection Certificates (NOC) Timely
If your premises is rented, get a proper NOC from the property owner.
Some municipal authorities may also require NOC from neighboring shops or societies—check in advance.
Ensure Fire Safety Compliance
Install all required fire safety equipment like extinguishers, emergency lights, and smoke alarms.
Obtain a valid Fire Safety Certificate from the local Fire Department before applying.
Install CCTV Surveillance
Many cities mandate installation of CCTV cameras for security and monitoring purposes.
Ensure cameras cover entry/exit points and gaming areas.
Maintain at least 30 days of video backup (or as per local rules).
Avoid Gambling or Betting Games
Ensure that all games in your parlour are skill-based or recreational and not related to gambling or betting.
Strictly avoid games that involve monetary rewards through chance.
Display Age Restrictions Clearly
Clearly display signage indicating age restrictions (if applicable).
Monitor customer entry to prevent minors from accessing age-inappropriate games.
Maintain Clean and Safe Premises
Keep the parlour clean, hygienic, and well-lit.
Ensure regular maintenance of electrical systems to prevent short circuits or hazards.
Comply with Business Hours Regulations
Adhere to the permitted operational hours set by the municipal or police authorities.
Avoid running your parlour during late-night hours if it violates local rules.
Pay Fees Promptly
- Pay the required license fees, inspection charges, and renewal fees on time to avoid penalties or delays in approval.
Keep Records of Equipment
Maintain an updated list of all gaming machines, consoles, and related equipment installed on the premises.
Some authorities may ask for equipment details during inspection.
Hire a Legal Consultant (Optional)
- If unsure about the procedure or facing difficulties, consult a professional legal advisor or licensing consultant to assist with documentation and submissions.
Video Game Parlour License Process
- Sent to the licensing unit for review
- Examining the application and supporting documentation by the licensing unit
- Online notification of the applicant’s shortcomings
- The applicant’s online correction of any errors
Internal application processing
If the license is granted or renewed, the fee must be paid online using a payment gateway for New Arms or in person at the licensing unit using a debit or credit card for renewal.
Fee for receipts
Renewal of the license
Frequently Asked Questions
The license for Video Game Parlour is valid from January 1st to December 31st of each year.
The Regulation for Licensing and Controlling Places of Public Amusement (Other than Cinemas) and Performances for Public Amusement (Amendment), 1991, governs the Video Game Parlour License.
Applying must be done online at www.delhipolicelicensing.gov.in. To be eligible for a Video Game Parlour License, the following paperwork must be submitted: -? A Notary Public-attested affidavit worth Rs. 10 on non-judicial stamp paper? Evidence of ownership: a lease or rental agreement? NOCs from the owner of the property? What is the VGP’s key/site plan? Four photos of the applicant and the VGP taken from various perspectives. MCD Health Trade License in effect. Verification of the applicant’s identity (Aadhaar, voter ID, driver’s license, passport, PAN card, etc.)? The applicant’s proof of address (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, or electricity bill). Certificate of GST Registration? The Delhi Fire Service gave the fire safety certificate.
To get a video game parlor license, you need the NOC of the local police, the fire department, the electrical department of GNCT Delhi, the MCD/NDMC health trade license, and the applicant’s character verification.
The video game parlor license must be renewed with the NOC of the local police, the fire department, the electrical department of GNCT Delhi, and the MCD/NDMC health trade license.
The charge for granting and renewing a Video Game Parlour license is Rs. 65/-. (The fee can only be paid with a debit or credit card at the Licensing Unit’s fee counter).