British Columbia Sports Betting in 2024
British Columbia was one of seven Canadian provinces to launch single-game sports betting on Aug. 27, 2021.
While some Canadian jurisdictions have decided to take a more deliberate approach following the amendment to Canada’s criminal code (Bill C-218), the British Columbia Lottery Corporation’s PlayNow Sportsbook was well-positioned for an immediate launch. Local users can place bets with a variety of well-reviewed and verified betting sites. PlayNow is the only regulated operator, but others like Sports Interaction and Bet365 accept players from BC.
This page will be updated as the B.C. single-game sports betting market continues to develop.
British Columbia’s best sportsbooks
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- Sports Interaction Benefits
- Terrific live betting
- No fee banking
- Strong market coverage
- Sports Interaction Review
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- TonyBet Benefits
- Extensive VIP program
- 2,000+ events to bet on
- Canadian-friendly deposit methods
- TonyBet Review
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- bet365 Benefits
- Deposits via Interac
- Best prices
- Gold standard layout
- bet365 Review
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- Pinnacle Benefits
- Good coverage for the most popular sports
- Low margins
- High betting limits
- Pinnacle Review
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- Stake Benefits
- Extensive list of cryptocurrencies
- Strong live betting platform
- esports betting
- Stake Review
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- PowerPlay Benefits
- 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support
- More than 30 sports
- Various deposit bonuses
- PowerPlay Review
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- BetVictor Benefits
- Fast withdrawals
- Sharp football odds
- NFL Live Streaming
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- BET99 Benefits
- Boosted NFL parlays
- Daily promotional offers
- Large signup bonus
- BET99 Review
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- 888sport Benefits
- Awesome interface
- Lots of live streaming options
- Frequent promos
- 888sport Review
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- Shangri La Live Benefits
- Big sportsbook welcome bonus
- Offers a lot of betting markets
- Live betting and cash out features
- Shangri La Live Review
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- LeoVegas Benefits
- Rich offering for live streaming
- Award-winning mobile betting platform
- Supports English and French language
- LeoVegas Review
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- Casumo Benefits
- Modern and sleek sportsbook interface
- No transaction fees and fast payouts
- Award-winning online betting operator
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- NEO.bet Benefits
- Accepts Interac
- Sharp betting odds
- iOS and Android mobile apps
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- Betway Benefits
- Modern betting platform
- Convenient banking
- Dedicated loyalty program
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- NorthStar Bets Benefits
- Excellent live betting interface
- Bundles of betting options
- Canadian-owned and operated
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- Coolbet Benefits
- Aims to provide the best odds
- Very fast withdrawal times
- Rich schedule for live betting
- Coolbet Review
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- bwin Benefits
- Established reputation
- Terrific online betting interface
- Excellent mobile apps
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- 22Bet Benefits
- Wide selection of sports and markets
- Good betting odds across the site
- 24/7 professional customer service support
- 22Bet Review
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- PlayNow Benefits
- Owned and operated by the BCLC
- Generous 100% welcome bonus
- Accepts Visa, MasterCard, PayPal and more
- PlayNow Review
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- BetPlays Benefits
- Cryptocurrency banking supported
- Generous welcome bonus
- Fantastic customer support
125% Match up to $250
- Population: 5.1 million
- Legal age for sports betting: 19
- Online sports betting: Yes
- Retail sportsbooks: No
- Sports betting revenue: $99 million
Top 5 British Columbia betting sites reviewed
We've searched from the mountain tops to the coast of the Pacific Ocean to bring you the top five online sports betting sites available in British Columbia in 2024.
1. Sports Interaction British Columbia
In 2024, Sports Interaction stands out as the premier sports betting site in British Columbia. With exceptional live betting features, outstanding customer service, and a wide range of betting markets covering both major leagues and niche sports, SIA offers everything you need in an online sportsbook. Add in its easy-to-claim welcome offer, and we see no reason why B.C. bettor shouldn't sign up with Sports Interaction today.
We believe Sports Interaction British Columbia is suitable for all types of bettors, regardless of experience. SIA has a user-friendly layout, making navigating throughout the platform — whether you're using the desktop or mobile version — quite seamless. While it doesn't have the sharpest lines, we still believe that SIA brings a lot to the sports betting table in 2024.
Bonuses and promotions | ⭐ 3.8/5 |
Banking and payout speed | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Key features | ⭐ 4.7/5 |
Security and trust | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Customer support | ⭐ 4.9/5 |
User experience | ⭐ 4.0/5 |
Betting odds | ⭐ 3.8/5 |
"Pretty good app. Easy to use and has great odds. Looks fairly good, and withdraws and deposits come in fairly quick."
- App Store reviewer
"In my experience the only problem I’ve had with sports interaction is they are very picky with documents. I had to re-send my document (utility bill) several times before it was accepted, but since then there has been no troubles and I’ve used the site for many years now."
- Reddit user
Sports Interaction at a glance
💰 Sign-up bonus | 125% Match up to $250 |
🏅 Top feature | Terrific live betting |
💵 Minimum deposit | $10 |
💵 Minimum wager | $1 |
🕒 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
App Store rating | 4.4/5 ⭐ (3.5K reviews) |
Google Play rating | 3.2/5 ⭐ (300 reviews) |
🌎 Available provinces/territories | AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NT, NS, NU, ON, PE, QC, SK, YT |
✅ Last verified | Oct. 31, 2024 |
We've leaned on more than 100 combined years of betting experience while placing over 14,250 wagers with Sports Interaction.
Sports Interaction iOS app
What we like
What we don't like
Check out our Sports Interaction review to learn more about the sportsbook, such as what bonuses you can score with the latest Sports Interaction promo code.
2. bet365 British Columbia
$1,000 First Bet Safety Net
Code: COVERS365
Bet $10, Get $50
Code: COVERS365
bet365 — a well-recognized international online sportsbook — has been one of our top sportsbook choices for over 20 years. Equipped with one of the best sports betting apps in Canada, industry-leading pricing across over 35 betting markets, and a fantastic duel welcome offer, bet365 British Columbia continues to impress us in 2024.
We believe bet365 is a fantastic option for all B.C. sports bettors, but especially those who love wagering on niche or overseas markets. You can lock in great prices for Aussie rules, esports, cricket, and more unique sporting events as easily as you can for any NFL game. If you want a well-rounded online sportsbook in British Columbia, look no further than bet365.
Bonuses and promotions | ⭐ 4.7/5 |
Banking and payout speed | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Key features | ⭐ 4.7/5 |
Security and trust | ⭐ 4.9/5 |
Customer support | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
User experience | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Betting odds | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
"The gold standard, and they simply can’t be beaten. Any bettor with experience knows that they are light years ahead of the competition in terms of, well everything: betting limits, customer service, UI."
- Reddit user
"bet365 and their team have created the best, unique, fastest, and aesthetically pleasing sports betting application. It’s exciting and immersive. As betting should be."
- App Store reviewer
bet365 at a glance
💰 Sign-up bonus | |
⏩ bet365 bonus code | COVERS365 |
🏅 Top feature | Best app |
💵 Minimum deposit | $10 |
💵 Minimum wager | $0.20 |
🕒 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
App Store rating | 4.7/5 ⭐ (93K reviews) |
Google Play rating | 4.4/5 ⭐ (11K reviews) |
🌎 Available provinces/territories | AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NT, NS, NU, ON, PE, QC, SK, YT |
✅ Last verified | Oct. 31, 2024 |
We've leaned on more than 100 combined years of betting experience while placing over 52,800 wagers with bet365.
bet365 iOS app
What we like
What we don't like
Check out our bet365 review to learn more, and claim our exclusive bet365 bonus code for your new-user bonus.
3. Pinnacle British Columbia
Best odds
Code: COVERSVIP
Pinnacle is one of British Columbia's most unique online sportsbooks, as it does not offer any kind of bonuses or promotions to its users. What makes it one of the five best B.C. betting sites is that it provides low margins on all its markets, allowing you to receive more favourable payouts on your wins. That alone makes Pinnacle a must-add for all British Columbia bettors in 2024.
While we recommend Pinnacle to all B.C. bettors, we believe the online sportsbook is best suited for high-rollers who prioritize getting the best value for their wagers. Pinnacle rarely imposes account limits, which eliminates the fear of getting your account restricted during a winning streak like some other operators do.
Bonuses and promotions | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
Banking and payout speed | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Key features | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
Security and trust | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
Customer support | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
User experience | ⭐ 4.5/5 |
Betting odds | ⭐ 4.6/5 |
"Vig on some bets are lower (hence payout is a bit better). They don't limit you if you keep winning."
- Reddit user
"I have nothing bad to say about Pinnacle. Quick withdrawals, they show me the max stake I am allowed to bet, good odds, super trustworthy."
- Trustpilot reviewer
Pinnacle at a glance
💰 Sign-up bonus | N/A |
⏩ Pinnacle VIP code | COVERSVIP |
🏅 Top feature | Best odds, high limits |
💵 Minimum deposit | $5 |
💵 Minimum wager | $1 |
🕒 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
App Store rating | N/A |
Google Play rating | N/A |
🌎 Available provinces/territories | AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NT, NS, NU, ON, PE, QC, SK, YT |
✅ Last verified | Oct. 31, 2024 |
We've leaned on more than 100 combined years of betting experience while placing over 5,250 wagers with Pinnacle.
Pinnacle mobile website
What we like
What we don't like
Are you interested in learning more? Consult our Pinnacle review to see further details on key features, banking options, and more.
4. LeoVegas British Columbia
Since adding a dedicated sportsbook section in 2016, LeoVegas has quickly become one of our top British Columbia sports betting sites of 2024. While its interface still leans more casino-based, you can navigate to its sports live streaming, betting markets, and bonuses quite easily.
We feel that LeoVegas is an excellent choice for British Columbians looking for a user-friendly online gambling experience. With a broad selection of live betting options, a wealth of bet types, casino games, and mobile compatibility, it appeals to both casual players and seasoned bettors. Additionally, LeoVegas offers a diverse range of personalized gaming options and promotions to suit all preferences.
Bonuses and promotions | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
Banking and payout speed | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
Key features | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
Security and trust | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Customer support | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
User experience | ⭐ 4.5/5 |
Betting odds | ⭐ 4.2/5 |
"LeoVegas is great; they're a Kambi book, so they have good odds. The thing is, they limit really fast."
- Reddit user"I’ve enjoyed the LeoVegas app, as it has some good offers and promos. I wish there were more alternative lines available for sports, but not a huge deal as I can always shop lines elsewhere. I love that app overall, though."
- App Store reviewer
LeoVegas at a glance
💰 Sign-up bonus | Bet $25, get $50 |
🏅 Top feature | Live streaming |
💵 Minimum deposit | $10 |
💵 Minimum wager | $0.10 |
🕒 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
App Store rating | 4.3/5 ⭐ (2.4K reviews) |
Google Play rating | 3.9/5 ⭐ (5.1K reviews) |
🌎 Available provinces/territories | AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NT, NS, NU, ON, PE, QC, SK, YT |
✅ Last verified | Oct. 31, 2024 |
LeoVegas iOS app
What we like
What we don't like
You can find everything you need to know in our LeoVegas review, including bonuses, customer service details, and FAQ.
5. Stake British Columbia
Even though Stake is a newcomer to the British Columbia sports betting scene, it has quickly established itself as one of the top cryptocurrency sportsbooks in 2024. B.C. bettors seeking a diverse array of markets for both popular and niche sports, an impressive live betting section, and a strong selection of bonuses will want to add Stake to their sports betting rotation today.
We recommend Stake British Columbia to all experience bettors who prioritize high limits for both online sports betting and casino play, as you can navigate between NFL markets and exclusive slot titles within the same account. We'd also suggest Stake if crypto is your preferred banking method.
Bonuses and promotions | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Banking and payout speed | ⭐ 4.3/5 |
Key features | ⭐ 4.2/5 |
Security and trust | ⭐ 4.2/5 |
Customer support | ⭐ 4.1/5 |
User experience | ⭐ 3.9/5 |
Betting odds | ⭐ 3.9/5 |
"One of the big appeals of Stake to newcomers is the different number or cryptocurrencies that they accept."
- Reddit user
Stake.com Sportsbook at a glance
💰 Sign-up bonus | 200% match up to $3,000 |
⏩ Stake.com promo code | C3000 |
🏅 Top feature | Crypto deposits supported |
💵 Minimum deposit | $50 |
💵 Minimum wager | $15 |
🕒 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
App Store rating | N/A |
Google Play rating | N/A |
🌎 Available provinces/territories | AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, PE, QC, SK |
✅ Last verified | Oct. 31, 2024 |
What we like
What we don't like
Our Stake Sportsbook review outlines everything you need to know about the operator, including how to claim the latest Stake promo code.
How we rate B.C.’s sportsbooks
Is sports betting legal in British Columbia?
Yes, it is legal to bet on sports in British Columbia. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) oversees sports betting in the province and has permitted parlay bets since 1985. Online sports betting sites have been available via BCLC’s PlayNow.com since 2004, and legal single-game wagering was introduced on Aug. 27, 2021.
However, industry giants like PointsBet, FanDuel Ontario, BetRivers Ontario, and others won't be coming to B.C. anytime soon. These sports betting sites only operate when licensed by a local provincial government, and B.C. lawmakers have yet to express a desire for a competitive market with multiple operators.
British Columbia sports betting updates
Single-game sports bets were legalized in B.C. on Aug. 27, 2021, the same day the federal ban on this type of wager was lifted. It remains to be seen if regulators will allow any of North America's most well-known sportsbooks to obtain licences in British Columbia.
The following timeline shows B.C.’s road to single-game sports betting:
Oct. 3, 2024: A B.C. lawyer faces 3-5 years in prison after being found guilt of stealing $1.4 million of clients' money to pay off gambling debts.
Sept. 24, 2024: The Senate of Canada's Transport and Communications Committee is hearing testimonies about Bill S-269 to help Canada learn sports betting advertising lessons from other countries.
Sept. 20, 2024: The B.C. government exits an Ontario court matter that was examining the legality of various forms of online gambling.
June 26, 2023: The BCLC begins checking the identification of all visitors entering casinos in an effort to increase responsible gambling efforts. Bettors can expect security staff to scan their IDs and check their credentials against a database of restricted users.
April 6, 2023: BCLC inks a retail sports betting contract with Intralot, a Greek gaming company. Intralot will power more than 700 self-service kiosks and 3,400 clerk-operated terminals in BC by winter 2023.
June 6, 2022: BCLC partners with the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) and SaskGaming to bring PlayNow.com to Saskatchewan.
Feb. 28, 2022: BCLC says a recent study found that 64% of B.C. gamblers prefer to bet with a provincially-run platform, while just 6% would rather use an offshore website.
Feb. 22, 2022: BCLC projects PlayNow will see 7% revenue growth for the fiscal year 2022-23 while recognizing the challenge of competing with grey market operators.
Feb. 8, 2022: BCLC announces PlayNow.com is projected to rake in over $2 million in Super Bowl bets, doubling its previous record Super Bowl betting handle.
Jan. 15, 2022: BCLC continues to investigate ways to bring single-event wagering to more land-based venues, including casinos.
Nov. 1, 2021: The BCLC releases PlayNow's single-game sports betting handle for September and October 2021. The province's lone online provider surpasses $25 million in single-game bets during the first two months of legalization.
Aug. 27, 2021: PlayNow Sportsbook offers single-game sports betting to British Columbians for the first time.
Aug. 12, 2021: Justice Minister David Lametti reveals that Bill C-218 will come into effect on Aug. 27, 2021. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) wastes no time in announcing that single-game events will be available on PlayNow.com the same day.
Aug. 3, 2021: The BCLC chooses Genius Sports Limited as its new official data provider as it prepares to launch single-game betting.
June 29, 2021: Bill C-218 receives royal assent. Single-game sports betting is officially legalized in Canada.
June 22, 2021: The Senate approves Bill C-218 by a vote of 57-20. The bill awaits royal assent to become law.
April 22, 2021: Bill C-218 swiftly passes in the House of Commons with all-party support.
Feb. 25, 2020: Kevin Waugh, a Saskatoon, Saskatchewan MP, introduces Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. The proposed legislation aims to amend Canada’s criminal code and legalize single-game sports betting.
July 5, 2012: The BCLC expands its online offerings, becoming the first province to offer futures and live bets via its newly-branded PlayNow Sports platform.
2004: The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) launches online sports betting with PlayNow.com. B.C. bettors place provincially-regulated parlay bets online for the first time.
Who can bet on sports in B.C.?
British Columbia sports bettors must be 19 years of age to place legal sports bets with the best sports betting apps in Canada.
PlayNow Sportsbook is B.C.'s home for online picks. Only British Columbia residents may register and bet with PlayNow. Physical wagers can be confirmed at a BCLC retailer via the Sports Action platform. Users can also access grey markets via operators like Stake without the need for a Stake promo code.
Here's everything you'll need to know before placing your first bet:
Legal age
You must be at least 19 years old to bet on sports in British Columbia.
Mobile betting
Bettors can place legal online sports wagers on a mobile device or laptop computer in B.C. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) regulates all sports gambling in the province and allows only B.C. residents to use the PlayNow online sportsbook.
Remote registration
B.C. residents can create a sportsbook account from anywhere in the province. Unlike some other Canadian jurisdictions, players are not required to visit a retail outlet to submit their picks.
Retail sportsbooks
Although no retail sportsbooks exist in BC, the BCLC has tested the PlayNow.com platform in several land-based locations. In February 2022, a dozen bars and pubs displayed live odds, promos, and healthy-play tips on digital screens.
Taxable winnings
British Columbians, like all Canadian bettors, can enjoy 100% of their sports bet winnings. Gambling profits are not taxed in Canada.
Latest B.C. betting news
The pros and cons of B.C. sports betting
British Columbia has offered online sports betting since 2004. The province’s tried and true PlayNow platform should allow for a seamless transition to single-game wagering.
While B.C. now offers online single-event sports wagering, bettors remain limited to the two BCLC-regulated platforms — PlayNow Sports (online) and Sports Action (retail).
British Columbia sports betting
How to start betting in British Columbia
British Columbian bettors now have the ability to place wagers on single events online or at a BCLC retailer. Here's how to get started:
Select a sportsbook
Additional sportsbooks could launch in the future, but bettors in B.C. currently have only one choice when it comes to provincially regulated sportsbooks. Consequently, many gamblers opt to bet with legal offshore alternatives.
Register online
In order to register online, B.C. bettors must confirm their identity and location. If players are at least 19 years old and physically present in British Columbia, this process should take no more than a few minutes.
Claim a bonus
The best bonuses can be found with offshore sportsbooks. Second-chance bets, deposit matches, and no-deposit bonuses are the most popular types of promotional offerings for new users.
PlayNow Sports typically has a small welcome offer on tap for B.C. residents, but this offer is usually tied to play-through requirements.
Deposit funds
Deposits can be processed quickly. Sportsbooks allow players to use several payment methods, including debit and credit, Interac e-Transfers, eChecks, and more.
The majority of deposits can be made free of charge, but some credit cards may treat sportsbook deposits as cash advances and charge the transaction as such.
Choose your bet types
PlayNow Sports offers bettors all of the popular types of sports bets — most notably in Canada, single-game wagers. Play the moneyline, point spreads, Over/Under(totals), parlays, futures, live bets, and much more. Offshore sportsbooks offer all of the above as well.
Start betting
Always make sure you fully understand the conditions of your bet and the risk associated with each wager. Remember, provincially regulated options won’t always offer the same lines as some of the offshore alternatives. So shop around, locate the best odds, and bet with confidence.
Withdraw funds
While deposits may be completed instantly, withdrawals may take a few days to process. This will vary depending on your chosen sportsbook and withdrawal method.
Reading the odds
American odds, or moneyline odds, is the go-to option for most sportsbooks when displaying betting odds. Favourites are shown with a minus sign (-) and tell you the amount you would need to bet to win $100. For example, -150 odds indicate you would need to wager $150 if you’d like to win $100.
Alternatively, an underdog can be spotted next to a plus (+) sign. The number that follows dictates how much you can win if you place a successful $100 bet. Think of +160 odds as a potential $160 addition to your bank account after a $100 winning bet.
Some sportsbooks, like PlayNow Sports, show decimal odds as the default option. Users can easily toggle between American, decimal, and fractional odds via our odds converter.
What else can you bet on in B.C.?
Prior to Aug. 27, 2021, the major gripe with legal sports betting in British Columbia was the absence of single-event wagering. Now that Canada’s parlay-only betting law is a thing of the past, there aren’t many restrictions in the province.
Awards ceremonies
British Columbians are permitted to place bets on the outcomes of popular celebrity award ceremonies like the Oscars or Emmy Awards.
Politics
Political bets are hugely popular in British Columbia. Although PlayNow does not take any action on B.C. or Canadian politics, reputable political betting sites in Canada offer wagers on the outcomes of U.S. and international political events.
esports
Esports betting has become increasingly popular and is permitted in B.C., meaning bettors can wager with the top available esports betting sites in 2024.
What about B.C. university sports?
University sports have not been outlawed in B.C., but sportsbooks are not taking any action on this type of wager at this time. However, some offshore sites allow British Columbians to bet on major events like the Vanier Cup.
Legal sportsbooks in British Columbia
B.C. sports bets can be placed online at PlayNow.com — the lone government-regulated option in British Columbia.
British Columbia's online and mobile sportsbooks
Online sportsbook operator |
Mobile app |
Odds provider |
Online casino |
Retail partner |
---|---|---|---|---|
Yes |
Scientific Games |
Yes |
N/A |
Home team advantage: B.C. sports
While the NFL blitzes the competition and captures most of the sports betting interest in B.C., the local and nearby roster of sports teams attracts significant betting attention, highlighted by the Vancouver Canucks and BC Lions.
Our sportsbook review page identifies the best sites to place bets and each review is backed by the Covers BetSmart System™. You can also check out our how to bet guides to brush up on all the basics of sports betting.
Other types of gambling
British Columbia residents are flush with options when venturing outside the world of sports betting. Whether it’s live horse racing, casino gambling, or online slots, B.C. is sure to quench the thirst of the local gambler.
Land-based casinos
According to the BCLC, there are 34 land-based casinos and community gaming centres found across the province. These facilities offer gamblers a wide assortment of slot machines and table games.
Casino games like blackjack, poker, baccarat, lottery, bingo, and slots can be enjoyed on the BCLC-regulated PlayNow website. These popular games have been offered to B.C. residents since 2010.
Poker
Poker tables are commonplace at land-based casinos in British Columbia. Tables can be found at nearly all of the province’s 18 fully operational casinos.
Online poker players can scratch their poker itch with the PlayNow Poker app, available at the App Store and Google Play.
Horse racing
It is not possible to place a horse racing bet with PlayNow, but offshore sportsbooks provide coverage for the main B.C. racetracks. Bets can be placed through any of the sportsbooks for races at: Desert Park (Osoyoos), Sunflower Downs (Princeton), Fraser Downs Racetrack (Surrey), Hastings Racetrack (Vancouver), and Kin Park (Vernon).
Daily fantasy sports
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) were officially legalized when Bill C-218 received royal assent. DraftKings and FanDuel are already operating in B.C.
Online casinos
BC online casinos offer numerous slots and table games. Multiple safe off-shore online casinos are operating in British Columbia. Some of our top-rated include Slots Magic, AmunRa, and North Casino.
Responsible gaming in British Columbia
BCLC and PlayNow.com have taken a unique approach to educating BC sports bettors. The only gambling website in North America with dedicated "GameSense Advisors" (player-health specialists), PlayNow allows bettors to reach out via phone or live chat to ask gambling-related questions or seek treatment for problem gambling. PlayNow's GSAs refer players to free support services provided by the BC government.
Provincial betting guides
With more than 28 years of excellence within the sports betting industry, Covers continues to provide Canadians with independent sportsbook reviews.
Whether you are looking for the best NFL sportsbook or the best site for live NHL betting, Covers has vetted the best places to bet online in British Columbia. Canada is a big place, but we’ve gone local and assembled a list of the best online sports betting sites near you.
More British Columbia sportsbook sign-up bonuses
We've outlined some additional Canadian sign-up offers available to British Columbia bettors that caught our eye in 2024 below:
Sportsbooks to avoid in British Columbia
See all blacklisted sportsbooks
The following online sportsbooks should be avoided due to their questionable tactics and failure to provide adequate services.
- Allegations of withdrawal issues
- No license information available on site
- Poor customer service
- Multiple reports of slow payments
- Allegations of non-payments
- Risk of account closure simply for winning bets
- Reports of confiscated winnings
- Slow customer support response times
British Columbia sports betting FAQ
Yes, sports betting is legal in British Columbia. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) oversees PlayNow Sportsbook, while several other reputable sportsbooks operate legally in the province.
The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) owns and operates PlayNow, the province's single officially licensed online sports betting outlet. Several other reputable international and offshore sportsbooks are also open to customers in the Province.
Sports betting in British Columbia is restricted to adults aged 19 and older.
You can visit British Columbia’s online sportsbook at PlayNow.com, or one of many offshore websites. Alternatively, you can visit a BCLC retailer to make your picks with Sports Action.
Single-game betting is the latest addition to British Columbia’s library of sports bet offerings. Prop bets, point spreads, futures, Over/Unders, and live bets are popular options in B.C.
Yes. Mobile sports betting in British Columbia is available via PlayNow.com. Additionally, bets can be placed through non-provincially regulated online sportsbooks.
British Columbia has only one provincially regulated sportsbook — PlayNow Sportsbook. B.C. bettors also have plenty of offshore betting options, and more BCLC-regulated alternatives could be added in the future.
Yes. Las Vegas-based Scientific Games Corporation provides the odds found on the BCLC’s PlayNow Sportsbook.
Yes, Sports Interaction is a highly reputable sportsbook that legally operates in British Columbia.
No. Income earned does not need to be declared on your tax return. According to the Canada Income Tax Act, occasional lottery winnings in Canada are considered a windfall.
No. However, BCLC has begun exploring ways to bring the PlayNow platform to brick-and-mortar locations.
No, but you must reside in British Columbia if you'd like to bet on PlayNow.com. Both B.C. residents and visitors may use legally operating offshore websites.
They aren't. As mentioned earlier, gambling winnings are not taxable in Canada unless the player is deemed professional, or the player is earning income on the winnings.
While legal, regulated sportsbooks uphold key principles of responsible gaming, protection of consumer funds, data privacy, etc. Offshore books do nothing to protect their bettors.
Most sportsbooks allow a myriad of methods to deposit, including credit card, paypal, interac and more. Withdrawing, depending on the sportsbook, should be easily available. Typically, payout speeds are within 24 hours, with some books paying out quicker.
An award-winning author at just six years old (it’s true!), Jeff has parlayed his early-life accolades into a prominent role in the iGaming content space with Covers. He now leads a talented team of expert betting analysts and sportsbook reviewers focused on delivering world-class experiences to North American bettors.
Jeff joined the Covers team full-time in 2021 and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s content strategy and providing accurate, timely coverage of burgeoning legal sports betting markets like New York, Ohio, and Ontario. He is passionate about providing comprehensive, transparent, and unbiased betting analysis and giving Covers readers the confidence they need to come to their own conclusions when deciding how and where to bet online.
Jeff primarily bets on NFL, MLB, and NHL player props, but he is always looking for value in futures markets. If Jeff could only use one betting app, it would be bet365, but he’s also a big fan of DraftKings, FanDuel, and Sports Interaction. He is a strong proponent of line shopping and never, ever chases losses.
Jeff holds a BBA from St. Francis Xavier University. His work has been featured in Newsweek and referenced in news media outlets like the Calgary Herald, Financial Post, and Toronto Sun. He was previously an independent NHL prospects writer and has crafted over 200 articles and guides across the sports, iGaming, e-learning, and LMS software industries.