Amusement Device License

Coin-Operated Amusement Devices

Any machine or device which, upon the insertion of a coin, slug, token, plate or disk, may be operated by the public generally by manipulating special equipment whereby a score is established; and at any machine where the operator of the device pays or gives consideration for the privilege of using the amusement device. Each slot on a machine is considered a separate device (i.e., pinball machines, video games, etc.) Gambling is prohibited by law! Machines that payout like a video poker machine, or where a wager can be made are prohibited.

Application Process

Upon request from the establishment (not the supplier), an application for both the proprietor and the supplier needs to be completed. If the establishment has a liquor license, no background check needs to be completed for the establishment. If, however, the supplier has not been established with us or has not conducted business in a few years, a background check will be required before acceptance of any application.

Information Needed

  • The name, address, and Social Security Number of the applicant(s), and / or all partners / stock holders who control, or owns 5% or more, or principal place of business, if the applicant is a corporation.
  • Submit the name of any other political subdivision within the state in which the applicant maintains, or has maintained in the last five years.
  • On the supplier's application- all locations that they supply must be listed on the application (not just one that is applying.) the trade name of the device(s) supplied, description of said device, and serial number of each device.
  • On the proprietor's application- the name and address of the supplier, name, and address of premises, trade name of each device, description of said device(s,) and serial number of each device must be on application.
  • A statement must be submitted that the applicant understands and has read all ordinances and agrees to abide by such rules / regulations.
  • If the proprietor is a new applicant- the zoning department must inspect the premises to determine if the premises are up to code. No background check is needed, if the proprietor has a current liquor license. If, however, the premise is for amusements only, the premises must be zoned properly, and a public hearing must be done (see Sec 4-324.)

Applications

Fees

  • Original application fee- $125
  • Annual renewal fee- $75
  • Exchange/transfer fee- $75

Additional Fees

  • An annual license fee per machine (May 1 through April 30) - $110 (not prorated)
  • Game room license annual fee (May 1 through April 30) - $1,000 (not prorated)
  • Device supplier annual fee (May 1 through April 30) - $175 (not prorated)

We must receive a renewal letter by April 1st of each year. Failure to do so releases any obligation to renew the license. (see sec. 4-305 through 4-307 on denial, or revocation of license)

Regulations

  • Premises are limited to 5 machines unless they receive approval from the village manager. Only two of these machines may be non-self-contained (i.e. pool tables, dart boards.)
  • The license, along with supplemental schedule when issued, shall be placed in a conspicuous place on the premises.
  • One machine may be exchanged for another coin-operated device. The original license must be returned to the Village of Villa Park so that the appropriate changes can be made to license. Applicants should also provide the exchange / transfer fee that is listed above, and provide a serial number, and description of machine. We will then issue a new license with the change.
  • The license will be revoked if the establishment fails to notify us of any new or replaced machine.
  • If the proprietor owns or has any interest in such devices, we must be provided with proof of ownership.
  • License is not transferable from person to person, or from place to place. A new license needs to be completed if ownership changes, or if machines are being moved. Approval is not automatic.

For more information, contact the Finance Department at 630-592-6050.