80-Meter Proposal Submitted for Distance Between Betting Shops

A new legislative proposal has been submitted aimed at reorganizing the minimum distance between betting shops and games of chance operators. This regulation was introduced to prevent game of chance halls from opening too close to each other and to make their distribution within the city more controlled. Authorities point out the commercial competition and urban aesthetic problems that arise in areas where betting shops are heavily concentrated. According to the proposal, there must be an air-line distance of at least 80 meters between the entrances of two different betting shop buildings. In the event of a violation of this rule, it is considered that new licenses will not be granted or sanctions will be imposed on existing operators. The main goal of the regulation stands out as preventing streets from being filled with betting offices and ensuring compliance with urban planning.

In the details of the proposal, the distance calculation method also carries great importance. Accordingly, the distance between two establishments is defined as a straight air-line (as the crow flies) distance between the entrances of the buildings. This definition aims to close the legal loopholes created by previous ambiguous measurement methods. The new rule covers both traditional lottery ticket sales locations and private games of chance halls. Thus, it will also be prevented for different types of games of chance operators to be located too close to each other. Experts state that this clear definition will also facilitate auditing processes. Taking only the direct line between door entrances into account is seen as a measure designed to prevent businesses from bypassing the rule through back doors or side entrances.

The betting and games of chance sector has shown a rapid growth momentum in this region in recent years, as it has in many countries. This sector, which has become one of the profitable business lines for companies, exhibited an almost invasive spread, especially in densely populated city centers and shopping streets. This situation was strongly criticized by both the local public and other small businesses. Citizens expressed that having a betting shop at the beginning of every street spoils the urban aesthetics and causes social problems. In addition, the excessive exposure of the young population to such venues worries families and non-governmental organizations. This concentration was the most important factor that pushed governments and local administrations to tighten current legislation and introduce new restrictions.

This submitted proposal is considered not only to regulate physical distances but also as part of a broader regulatory effort towards the games of chance sector. Authorities plan to increase digital audits along with physical limitations to reduce gambling addiction and prevent illegal betting operations. Betting companies, on the other hand, submit petitions arguing that such distance rules will restrict their commercial freedoms and negatively affect employment. However, in statements made by the government, it is emphasized that public interest and public health are prioritized over commercial interests. In the discussions to be held in the parliament, it will be debated whether the distance rule will be fixed at 80 meters or whether it will vary according to different urban zones. Sector representatives and non-governmental organizations are also expected to express their opinions in committee meetings.

There are many international examples of such regulations, and they generally lie at the intersection of urban planning and social policies. In various countries in Europe, while licenses are strictly not granted to betting shops around sensitive zones such as schools, hospitals, and religious institutions, certain lower limits are also set for the distance between two betting shops. It is predicted that if this new proposal is accepted, some of the existing betting shops may be forced to relocate or new license applications may be rejected. Experts state that the applicability of the rule depends on integrated operation with the urban databases of local municipalities. In the event that the decision finally becomes law, it is estimated that the face of the cities could gradually change and the visibility of the betting culture in the public space will decrease. The developments continue to be closely monitored by both the sector and urban transformation activists.