Amelia Walker, a J.D. holder and senior content writer at Betting.US, is a legal expert in responsible gambling. Initially skeptical, she now has over six years in professional gambling. She’s studied gambling law and currently educates gamblers on our site in legal and safe play.
South Carolina Sports Betting
By Amelia Walker
Senior Content Writer
Updated: September 16, 2024
Here, you will find accurate information regarding South Carolina sports betting. Not only will we list the administrative laws with respect to the industry, but we'll also share details about all functioning gambling facilities located in the state. Unfortunately, at this point, there are no sportsbooks or off-track betting locations available.
Full List and Map of South Carolina Sports Betting Locations
Currently, there are no sports betting establishments South Carolina residents can visit. There aren't any land-based casinos or retail South Carolina sportsbook you can place bets at. Sports gambling activity is forbidden within the state, and further in our review, we'll list the laws you should get familiar with before proceeding with gambling. All legal casinos in the state are on cruise ships in Little River and Charleston.
The Best South Carolina Sportsbooks
As mentioned, sports betting in South Carolina is not available. In other words, you won't find physical South Carolina sportsbooks within the state nor you can bet online. What's more, gambling at casinos is strictly prohibited by the law, so gambling houses are also excluded from the list of wagering destinations in Tennessee.
| Name | Type | Website | Full Address | Review |
|---|
Betting Locations by Type
As you've already found out, there aren't any land-based gambling establishments in South Carolina. Luckily, any betting enthusiast has the opportunity to take on an adventure with one of the four available cruise ships departing from the American state, precisely Charleston and Little River. You can book your seat via the cruises' official websites.
In the table above, we have listed the respective links. Unfortunately, you won't be able to bet on sporting events or horse races simply because these activities are outlawed in South Carolina. The only gambling occupation you'll be able to make use of will be playing slot machines, keno, roulette, and other table games.
Casino Resorts
Land-based casinos are not part of the gambling facilities in South Carolina. The reason being is that the SC General Assembly forbids most forms of wagering within the state, in this number gambling at casinos. That's why the only places people can bet real money are the casino cruise ships we'll mention further in our review.
Racetracks
Unlike many other states in the US, pari-mutuel betting is not allowed within the borders of South Carolina. Not only this, but the occurrence of horse racing events is quite rare. Punters are also forbidden to place wagers on simulcast horse or dog racings. At present, there are a very few racetracks in the state; however, you won't be allowed to bet at any of them.
Off-Track Betting
Since betting on horses is strictly forbidden in South Carolina, you won't find any off-track betting facilities in the state. The Palmetto State is one of the five states in the US that has imposed a ban on placing bets on horse and greyhound racings. However, the state hosts two annual races – one being organized in the spring and the other in the autumn.
Cruise Ships and Riverboats
As stated, residents of the state can only gamble at the four casino cruise ships departing from Charleston or Little River. The largest one is the Big M Casino Cruise. It is a 400-passengers ship with numerous amenities on board. The gaming hall is absolutely spectacular, featuring popular slot machines and popular table games.
The Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Ecstasy Casinos are your other options for gambling. The ships depart from Charleston and provide all guests with the opportunity to place real money wagers on beloved casino games. Not only this, but you'll have access to several dining places and a bar. None of these locations, however, provide any sports betting options.
List of Legal Land-Based Sportsbooks in South Carolina
Unfortunately, there aren't any land-based sportsbooks or other betting establishments in South Carolina. The reason being is that the state is extremely strict when it comes to gambling activities. It only allows for playing the lottery and the well-known game bingo.
If the state ever legalizes sports betting, we will update the list below to contain all sports betting locations per city.
Search for Sportsbooks in South Carolina
| Casino Name: | Address: | Secure Link: | City: |
|---|
South Carolina Sports Gambling - All Leagues and Bet Types
Sports betting is illegal in South Carolina, and it seems like it will remain that way in the upcoming years. In 2020, an attempt to legalize the activity was made; however, it turned out to be utterly unsuccessful. Today, there aren't any retail sportsbooks or land-based gambling houses. Online betting is also off-limits for South Carolina residents.
Punters are still free to visit offshore websites that accept players from the US. Notwithstanding, this is quite risky, considering the fact that these platforms promise limited protection since they have not been issues licenses from the respective South Carolina authorities. Despite that, however, some people still choose to take their chances by placing bets on various sports online. Below, we've listed the most popular ones among punters.
- SPORTS
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See AllGolf - (PGA Tour) Professional Golf Tours
- (LPGA) Ladies Professional Golf Association
Basketball - (NBA)National Basketball Association
- (NBL)National Basketball League
Volleyball - (NVA)National Volleyball Association
- (VLA)Volleyball League Of America
Baseball - (MLB) Major League Baseball
- (MiLB)Minor League Baseball
Rugby - (NRL) National Rugby League
- Super League
Soccer - (UEFA) Union of European Football Associations
- Premier League
Hockey - (AHL)American Hockey League
- (NHL)National Hockey League
-
Bet Types:
- Horses and Dogs
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- Standardbred racing
- Harness racing
Bet Types: - Off-Track (Simulcast) Betting
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The State Law Allows Off-Track Betting
Where Can I Check the Current Betting Odds and Lines?
Most places allowing for retail sports betting are equipped with special machines that will provide any necessary information to the punters. Unfortunately, however, betting on sports is strictly prohibited within the borders of South Carolina. The closest activity to sports betting is betting on offshore websites.
Even though it's not a secure method, many gamblers seem to have zero concerns about placing real money wagers on such websites. If this is the case for you, as well, you can have a look at some of the popular sportsbooks accepting players from the US. Usually, all information regarding the odds, the time, and the bet types for a specific event is provided on the platform.
Legal Sports Betting in South Carolina
In 2019 a bill in support of South Carolina sports betting was introduced. Unfortunately, it was rejected. A year later, another bill was proposed, but the outcome was similar to that in 2019. Today, it seems as if online sports gambling's legalization is a potential process that could happen in the far distant future.
Considering that South Carolina does not allow gambling in land-based casinos and betting on horses, we can say that the state's enthusiasm about a thriving betting industry is quite insufficient. There are many restrictions regarding wagering in the state, and in the succeeding listing, we've mentioned the most important rules any punter needs to get familiar with.
Is sports betting legal in South Carolina?
No, unfortunately, neither sports betting, nor gambling in land-based casinos is legal within the borders of South Carolina.
Legal age for sports betting?
If you wish to take on an exciting voyage with one of the casino cruise ships departing from South Carolina, you should keep in mind that the legal gambling age is 21.
Can you bet online in South Carolina?
No, online betting is not legal in South Carolina, and therefore, there aren't any licensed virtual sportsbooks you can register on.
Is fantasy sports betting allowed?
Playing daily fantasy sports is absolutely legal in South Carolina. The reason being is that betting on fantasy sports is not considered gambling.
Is off-track betting allowed?
South Carolina isn't a home of any off-track betting facilities. That’s because betting on horses is strictly forbidden in the state.
Are there any restrictions?
There are many restrictions when it comes to wagering in South Carolina. The only legal forms of gambling are playing the lottery, playing bingo, and playing raffles.
Who regulates SC sports betting?
If sports betting becomes legalized one day, it'll most likely be regulated by the South Carolina Lottery Commission.
History of Sports Betting in South Carolina
South Carolina is one of the most anti-gambling states in the US. Therefore, the history regarding the betting industry in Palmetto State is quite insufficient. For example, the state has never permitted betting on horses or greyhound racing events. Additionally, there aren’t any land-based casinos within the area.
Casino gambling can only be done at casino cruise ships. Fortunately, there are four such vessels South Carolina residents can catch. Another gambling activity residents can participate in is playing the lottery, which was established back in 2002. Even though two consecutive sports betting legalization bills were proposed, none of them were adopted by the state.
| Year | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 | The Beginning of South Carolina's Gambling Industry | 1976 marks the beginning of the betting industry in the state with the legalization of bingo. At present times, the state is the home of many bingo halls. However, there aren't any online bingo websites you can play on. |
| 2002 | Establishment of South Carolina Education Lottery | In 2002, the South Carolina Education Lottery was established. Today, it's one of the very few legal forms of gambling people of legal age, namely 18, can take part in. The available games are Pick 3, Pick 4, and Palmetto Cash 5. Additionally, there are various scratch tickets you can choose between. |
| 2019 | Introduction of Sports Betting Legalization Bill | In 2019 a bill concerning the legalization of sports betting in South Carolina was proposed. Unfortunately, it was quickly rejected. |
| 2020 | Second Proposal for Sports Betting Legalization | Not long after the 2019-bill, another one was introduced to the respective authorities. It was again in support of legalizing online sports wagering. Sadly, however, it was also imposed veto on. |
How to Bet on Sports in South Carolina
Sadly, no resident of South Carolina is permitted to place bets on sports events. And this doesn't only apply to disciplines, such as football, basketball, and volleyball. Punters are also forbidden to wager on horse or dog racing events. In fact, the state does not have any off-track betting facilities.
Notwithstanding, if you wish to take your chances with a specific game you're excited for, you can visit some of the offshore betting websites that accept players from the UK. However, we should inform you that this is an activity that's quite unsafe, considering none of these platforms have been licensed by the respective US authorities.
General Rules
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The legal gambling age in South Carolina is 21.
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The legal age for playing the lottery is 18.
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Pari-mutuel wagering is forbidden in South Carolina.
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Betting on offshore websites is considered a hazardous activity.
Are Exchanges and Pari-Mutuel Betting Available in South Carolina?
Pari-mutuel wagering, as well as exchange betting, are strictly forbidden within South Carolina. There aren't any race tracks or off-track betting establishments where you can bet on racings. Even though there are annual horse races organized in the state, you won't be able to place bets on any of them.
Considering how limited the gambling options in the state are, we assume that sports betting and pari-mutuel wagering will remain illegal in the future. Even though we hope South Carolina residents will get the legal right to bet on sports soon, we have all the reasons to believe the betting industry will remain as confined as it is at present.
Taxation of Winnings
Whether you make a substantial lottery winning or grab a massive cash reward at some of the cruise casinos, you are obliged to pay taxes for these earnings. All winnings of this type should be reported on a W-2G form. Usually, it's mandatory for the payor to provide you with such a form in case you've won a considerable amount of money.
In case you win over $500 from the lottery, this money automatically becomes subject to a withholding tax. As you probably know, some states don't have in-state tax laws. South Carolina, however, is not one of these states. Whenever a player wins from the lottery, they are obliged to pay the state's tax rate that is 7%.
Federal Law:
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$600 or more - the payor is obliged to provide you with a W-2G form
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All gambling winnings must be reported on a W-2G Form
Additional State Rules:
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Lottery tickets are valid for one year after purchase.
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Winnings from the lottery that exceed $500 become subject to a 7% withhold tax.
About South Carolina
South Carolina is part of the Southeastern region of the US. Its capital is Columbia, and the largest city within the state is Charleston. That is also the city where you'll be able to catch a cruise ship that provides guests with the opportunity to bet on various classic casino games.
Since South Carolina is one of the most antagonistic states when it comes to gambling activities, it's no wonder that it doesn't have any gambling facilities, except for the several bingo halls. The state's betting industry is surely not prosperous, and it's quite unlikely for it to change by and by.
| Capital | Columbia |
|---|---|
| Largest City | Charleston |
| Population | 5.149 million |
| Area | 82,931 km² |
| Time zone | GMT-4 |
| State Nickname(s) | The Palmetto State |
| Motto | Dum Spiro Spero |
| Teams | Sport | League |
|---|---|---|
| Myrtle Beach Pelicans | Baseball | MiLB |
| Augusta GreenJackets | Baseball | MiLB |
| Greenville Swamp Rabbits | Hockey | ECHL |
| Charleston Battery | Soccer | USL Championship |
Helping Hand for Gamblers in South Carolina
Anyone who experiences gambling-related problems can contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline. Alternatively, the organization gives anyone the opportunity to contact their representative via the live chat function available on their official website. Gam-Anon is a fellowship that, too, offers help for those in need. You can find additional information about each organization in the table below.
Help for Compulsive Gambling in South Carolina
- Hotlines National Problem Gambling Helpline ncpgambling.org/chat 1-800-522-4700
- Help centres Gam-Anon www.gam-anon.org 718-352-1671
Sports Betting Lawyers in South Carolina
- George J. Kefalos 843-722-6612www.kefaloslaw.com
FAQ
Can you bet on sports in South Carolina?
No, unfortunately betting on sports is strictly forbidden in South Carolina. Even though two consecutive bills in support of legalizing this activity within the state were introduced, both of them were rejected quite swiftly. As pessimistic as it may sound, we assume the gambling industry in South Carolina will remain quite limited in the future.
Is sports betting legal in South Carolina?
As mentioned, betting on sports is not legal within the borders of South Carolina. Gambling in land-based casinos is also impossible since there aren't any gambling facilities of this type in the area. Alternatively, any punter may catch the casino cruise ships departing from Charleston or Little River.
Who can apply for a South Carolina sports betting license?
If sports betting becomes legal in South Carolina, probably any reliable operator will be able to apply for a sports betting license. Nevertheless, at the moment this activity is outlawed, and it will most likely remain this way in the upcoming months, as well.
How much revenue does sports betting generate in South Carolina?
In 2020, South Carolina achieved a real record gaining $2.1 billion from sold lottery tickets. Considering this, we have grounds to believe that if sports betting legalization becomes a fact, the generated revenue from this activity will be tremendous.
How many sportsbooks are in South Carolina?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any retail sportsbooks in South Carolina. Additionally, you won't be able to find any gambling houses or off-track betting locations since gambling and pari-mutuel wagering are also illegal. The only available gambling locations are casino cruise ships.
What is the minimum age to place sports bets in South Carolina?
The legal gambling age in South Carolina is 21. That being said, you won't be allowed to enter the grounds of any gaming facility on Big M Casino Cruise or the Carnival Casinos. However, anyone who is 18 or older has the right to play daily fantasy sports online. As you already know, this is one of the permitted activities within the state.
️Is there online sports betting in South Carolina?
Unsurprisingly, online sports betting is also outlawed in South Carolina. Punters can only bet on offshore betting websites. However, such activity hides many risks, and some people prefer to steer clear of such platforms. An alternative to sports betting would be playing fantasy sports, which is not forbidden in any way by South Carolina's law.
How much does South Carolina make on sports betting?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide you with an answer to this inquire due to the fact that sports betting is completely illegal within South Carolina. However, we believe that if this activity becomes legalized, the state will earn a massive amount of money simply because myriads of individuals are into online and retail sports wagering.
What are the best sportsbooks in South Carolina?
There aren't any South Carolina sportsbooks you can visit physically or virtually. Nevertheless, the four casino cruise ships you can catch from Charleston or Little River have grandiose gaming halls. There, you'll find hundreds of slot machines and widespread table casino games.
What is the biggest sportsbook in South Carolina?
Without a doubt, the largest gambling facility any South Carolina resident can pay a visit to is the Big M Casino Cruise. The ship can welcome up to 400 passengers, and it has several amenities within the vessel. Not only will you be able to wager on amusing games, but you'll also have access to a buffet with delicious meals and fresh drinks.