Is Sports Betting Legal in Delaware: Your Quick Guide

Is sports betting legal in Delaware? Yes, sports betting is legal in Delaware, offering an exciting way for residents and visitors to engage with their favorite sports. Delaware was the second U.S. state to legalize sports betting, following the repeal of PASPA in 2018. As a result, both locals and tourists can enjoy placing bets on their favorite teams and events.

We can place bets at any of Delaware’s three brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. In addition to in-person betting, Delaware also allows betting through offshore sports betting sites, giving us more options on where to place our wagers. However, it’s important to note that the state does not currently offer online or mobile wagering through local platforms, although this is not explicitly prohibited.

The Delaware Lottery plays a significant role in regulating and overseeing sports betting operations, ensuring a fair and secure environment for all bettors. By understanding our options and the legal framework, we can make the most of our sports betting experiences in Delaware.

Key Takeaways

• Sports betting is legal in Delaware.
• Delaware offers three brick-and-mortar sportsbooks and allows betting through offshore sites.
• The Delaware Lottery regulates sports betting in the state.

Overview of Sports Betting in Delaware

Sports betting is indeed legal in Delaware. Our state has a rich history when it comes to gambling. The process began to take shape following the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) by the Supreme Court in 2018.

Key Dates:

• June 5, 2018: Delaware became the first state to legalize sports betting after the PASPA was repealed.
• August 2023: A new contract was signed with BetRivers to manage online sports betting.

We can place bets both in retail locations and through apps. Currently, BetRivers is the primary vendor for online sports betting. However, new legislation might soon allow multiple vendors to operate.

Age Requirement:

• Betters must be at least 21 years old. Our sportsbooks verify age before allowing any bets.

Current Legislation:

Delaware’s sports betting legislation has evolved over time. Rep. Frank Cooke introduced a new bill to allow more sports betting apps, potentially ending the exclusive contract with BetRivers. This could lead to more options for us.

Participation in Betting:

• Sports we can bet on include football, basketball, baseball, and more.
• Both single-game bets and parlays are available.

Popular Betting Locations:

• Retail Sportsbooks: Available at racetracks and select locations.
• Online Sports Betting: Accessible through the BetRivers app, with more apps potentially coming in the future.

By understanding these details, we can make more informed decisions about participating in sports betting here in Delaware.

Types of Sports Wagers Offered in Delaware

In Delaware, bettors have several options for placing sports wagers. These include single-game sports betting, parlay betting, and futures and propositions. Each type comes with its own benefits and rules, making the variety quite interesting for both new and experienced bettors.

Single-Game Sports Betting

Single-game sports betting is popular and straightforward. In this type of wager, players bet on the outcome of a single game or match. The primary markets often include moneyline bets where we simply place wagers on who will win the game. The simplicity of single-game betting makes it a great starting point.

Point spreads are also common in single-game bets. Here, the favorite must win by a certain number of points, while the underdog can lose by less than that number or win outright. This type of bet adds a layer of excitement and strategy. Over/under bets allow bettors to wager on the total number of points scored in a game, making it a fun way to stay engaged throughout the match.

Parlay Betting

Parlay betting combines multiple bets into a single wager. To win, all the individual bets within the parlay must be successful. While parlays are riskier, they also offer higher payouts compared to single-game bets. This is because the odds of winning multiple bets are lower.

In Delaware, we can create parlays that include a mix of different bet types like moneyline, point spread, and over/under bets. This flexibility allows us to build more complex wagers. For instance, we might bet on the outcomes of three different NFL games in one parlay. If all our picks are correct, the payout will be much larger than placing three separate single-game bets.

Futures and Propositions

Futures and propositions (often called prop bets) are more specific and long-term. Futures bets are placed on events set to happen in the future, like who will win the Super Bowl or which player will win the MVP award. These bets can be placed well in advance and usually come with favorable odds.

Proposition bets or prop bets are wagers on specific events within a game. For example, we might bet on the number of touchdowns a quarterback will throw or the first team to score in a match. These bets add another level of detail to our betting strategy and make watching games even more engaging.

Each of these wager types offers unique ways to participate in sports betting in Delaware. Whether we’re interested in the simplicity of single-game bets, the high stakes of parlays, or the detailed fun of futures and prop bets, there’s something for everyone.

Delaware’s Legal Sports Betting Venues

In Delaware, there are a few key venues where you can legally place your sports bets. These locations are not just for betting; they offer a complete entertainment experience, including casinos, race tracks, and other amenities.

Delaware Park and Casino

Delaware Park and Casino offers a wide range of betting options and amenities. Located near Wilmington, it is one of the most popular sports betting venues in the region. The facility provides a comfortable environment for placing bets, with multiple screens displaying live sports action.

Key Features:

• Sportsbook Area: A designated area filled with screens and seating to watch and bet on various sports.
• Other Amenities: Besides betting, you can enjoy horse racing, casino games like slots and table games, and several dining options.

Upcoming Events:

• Regularly hosts major sports events and horse races, making it an exciting place to visit year-round.

Harrington Raceway and Casino

Harrington Raceway and Casino is another great spot for sports betting enthusiasts. Located in Central Delaware, it’s accessible and offers a cozy atmosphere.

Key Features:

• Betting Options: From football to basketball, you can bet on a variety of sports here.
• Race Track: Live harness racing provides additional entertainment and betting opportunities.
• Facilities: The casino includes various slot machines and table games, and there are a few places to grab a bite to eat.

Location:

• Situated conveniently off Route 13, making it easy to reach for locals and visitors alike.

Dover Downs

Dover Downs, now known as Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, offers a blend of betting and luxurious amenities. It is located in the state capital, Dover, and is a top choice for both sports betting and entertainment.

Key Features:

• Sportsbook Area: A large, comfortable area with multiple screens showing live sports.
• Casino and Hotel: Offers a wide range of casino games and an attached hotel for extended stays.
• Other Attractions: Features include live horse racing and dining options from fine dining to casual eateries.

Specials and Promotions:

• Regular promotions and special events make this venue a vibrant spot for both locals and tourists.

Each of these venues offers unique features and experiences, making Delaware an exciting state for legal sports betting.

Online and Mobile Sports Betting in Delaware

Delaware has made significant strides in online and mobile sports betting, offering its residents a more convenient way to place bets. We’ll explore the development of online betting platforms and the accessibility of mobile betting apps in Delaware.

The Growth of Online Betting Platforms

Delaware officially launched its online sports betting platform in January 2024. The platform, provided by BetRivers, allows users to place bets from anywhere within the state. Initially, Delaware had only one online sportsbook to ensure regulatory compliance and smooth operation.

The Delaware Lottery oversees all operations, making sure everything runs smoothly. They selected Rush Street Interactive (RSI) as the state’s sole vendor. This helped streamline the introduction of online casinos as well, boosting the variety of gambling options for residents.

Multiple sports betting vendors are likely to appear soon. Relevant legislation aims to allow more competition which could enhance the user experience through better odds and promotions.

Mobile Betting Apps and Accessibility

Mobile betting apps make it easy for Delawareans to place bets from their phones. The BetRivers app, launched in January 2024, is currently the only available option. It offers a user-friendly interface where you can bet on various sports and games with real money.

With its mobile betting app, BetRivers provides features like live betting and instant deposits and withdrawals. Legislators are pushing to allow multiple apps, aiming to increase competition and give users more choices.

Increasing the number of mobile sports betting apps will likely improve service quality and innovation. This change is expected to bring Delaware in line with other states that have more developed online and mobile betting markets.

The Role of the Delaware Lottery in Sports Betting

The Delaware Lottery plays a crucial role in regulating and overseeing sports betting in our state. Since sports betting became legal, it helped set up and manage betting platforms.

We saw the impact firsthand when the Delaware Lottery selected Rush Street Interactive as the sole vendor for mobile sports betting. This led to the launch of the BetRivers app.

Key Responsibilities:

• Selecting Vendors: The Delaware Lottery chooses which companies can offer sports betting. They picked Scientific Games and BetRivers to ensure smooth operations.
• Revenue Tracking: They keep track of the revenue generated from sports betting. For example, in January 2024, the handle was $17.1 million.
• Regulating Fair Play: Ensuring that all betting practices adhere to state laws and provide a fair gaming environment.

We have also seen the Delaware Lottery work with major sports leagues like the NBA to improve the betting experience. This partnership helps in offering more diverse betting options.

The role of the state lottery is not just limited to selecting vendors. It also involves continuous monitoring and updating of betting platforms to improve user experience and ensure legal compliance.

In terms of mobile sports betting, the influence of the Delaware Lottery is evident. They were instrumental in launching apps and websites across the state quickly and efficiently. This streamlined approach has vastly improved the betting landscape.

Banking Options for Bettors

When betting in Delaware, it’s important to know how to safely and efficiently handle your money. We’ll cover the ways to deposit funds and withdraw winnings, ensuring you can bet smoothly.

Depositing Funds

Depositing money into your betting account is essential before you can start placing bets. We have several options available to us.

Debit cards are a common choice due to their ease of use and quick processing times. Most sportsbooks accept major debit cards like Visa and Mastercard. If we’re concerned about security, online banking is another secure and straightforward method that lets us transfer funds directly from our bank accounts.

PayPal and Venmo are popular for their fast transactions and added layers of security. They link directly to our bank accounts, making them convenient for quick deposits. Another option is Play+, a prepaid card that we can fund using various methods, including debit cards and bank transfers.

These methods offer us flexibility, security, and speed, ensuring we can add money to our account hassle-free.

Withdrawing Winnings

After winning a bet, we want to retrieve our earnings promptly. There are several withdrawal methods to consider.

Like deposits, using online banking for withdrawals is a secure and reliable option. It allows us to transfer our winnings directly to our bank accounts, typically within a few business days. Another quick option is using PayPal or Venmo, both known for their efficient processing and ease of transferring small and large sums alike.

For those using Play+, this prepaid card also works for withdrawals. The funds can be accessed instantly and used anywhere Play+ is accepted, or transferred to a bank account. Additionally, cash withdrawals from an associated casino cage are often allowed, making it easy to get physical cash if we prefer.

These varied options mean we can easily manage our betting funds, adding convenience and efficiency to our sports betting experience.

Legal Framework of Sports Betting in Delaware

In Delaware, sports betting is regulated at both the state and interstate levels. Specific legislation, like House Bill 365, and the involvement of state governors, like Jack Markell and John Carney, have shaped how betting operates within and beyond state lines.

Legislation Related to Sports Betting

In 2018, Governor John Carney signed legislation that made Delaware one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the Supreme Court ruling that overturned the federal ban. Delaware had a framework in place, developed under Governor Jack Markell, which allowed for a speedy implementation.

House Bill 365 is a significant piece of legislation that defines the operational guidelines. This bill lays out who can offer sports betting and the types of bets allowed. Bettors must be at least 21 years old, a rule verified by sportsbooks.

Jurisdiction and Interstate Matters

Delaware’s jurisdiction on sports betting extends to both land-based venues and mobile apps. The state contracts, for instance, with the BetRivers app. Recently, there have been moves to allow multiple vendors to operate, enhancing competition and options for bettors. Read more on these developments here.

Interstate matters affect how Delaware interacts with neighboring states. Currently, betting must occur within state lines, and our strict regulations ensure compliance with federal laws. This means that while you can place bets in Delaware, crossing into nearby states might require a different set of rules and legal considerations.

Sports Betting Options for Delaware Residents

In Delaware, residents can enjoy betting on professional sports, college sports, and daily fantasy sports. Each option offers unique opportunities and experiences for bettors.

Betting on Professional Sports

Delaware residents have the chance to bet on various professional sports. Whether you’re a fan of the NFL or the NHL, there are countless events to wager on.

The state currently has one primary app, BetRivers, which is used for sports betting. This app covers a wide range of professional sports, including the MLB and NBA. Additionally, Delaware offers in-person betting at three brick-and-mortar sportsbooks. These locations provide a comprehensive betting experience with various options and amenities.

College Sports Betting

Betting on college sports is another exciting option for Delaware residents. While we can place bets on college teams and events, it’s important to note the particular regulations surrounding this type of wagering.

For instance, there may be restrictions on betting on in-state college teams or specific college events. However, we can still bet on national NCAA tournaments and other big college games. This ensures that we can enjoy the thrill of college sports betting while adhering to state guidelines.

Daily Fantasy Sports

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is another exciting option available to us. Platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings enable us to draft our fantasy teams based on real-life player performances in different sports, including football, basketball, and baseball.

DFS adds a unique twist to traditional sports betting by allowing us to use our knowledge of players and teams to compete against others and potentially win prizes. It’s a fun and engaging way to make games more exciting and test our sports knowledge.

Promotions and Bonuses Offered

When it comes to sports betting in Delaware, we’ve got some great promotions and bonuses to look forward to.

Welcome Bonuses

Most online sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses to new users. These are usually matched deposit bonuses or risk-free bets. For instance, BetRivers Sportsbook often has a 100% deposit match up to a certain amount, which can help us start betting without too much risk.

DraftKings and FanDuel Offers

DraftKings and FanDuel are well-known for their attractive promotions. DraftKings might give us free bet credits after making our first bet, while FanDuel often provides risk-free bets up to a certain amount. This means if our first bet loses, we get our money back in bet credits.

Special Promotions

Sportsbooks frequently run special promotions during big sports events. These can include odds boosts, parlay insurance, and bet credits for betting on specific games or events.

Referral Bonuses

Don’t forget about referral bonuses. By referring friends, we can earn additional bet credits when they sign up and start betting. This is a great way to enhance our betting experience.

With these promotions and bonuses, our sports betting journey in Delaware can be both exciting and rewarding.

Responsible Gambling and Support

We believe that enjoying sports betting should always be fun and safe. Responsible gambling is about ensuring that betting remains a form of entertainment without causing harm.

Set Limits

One of the best ways to gamble responsibly is to set personal limits on how much time and money we spend on betting. It’s important to stick to these limits and never chase losses.

Identify Problem Gambling

It’s crucial to recognize the signs of problem gambling. Some common signs include:

• Spending more money than planned
• Lying about betting habits
• Feeling anxious or stressed about gambling

Seek Help

If we or someone we know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Here are some resources:

• National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• Gamblers Anonymous: www.gamblersanonymous.org
• Delaware Council on Gambling Problems: www.dcgp.org

Support Options

Many sports betting apps offer tools for responsible gambling such as:

• Self-exclusion: Temporarily or permanently blocking ourselves from betting apps.
• Deposit Limits: Setting maximum amounts we can deposit in a given time frame.
• Reality Checks: Receiving notifications on how long we’ve been playing.

We encourage everyone to make use of these tools to keep gambling fun and under control. Taking these steps can ensure that our sports betting experience is safe and enjoyable.