Responsible Gambling Policy
1. Purpose and Scope
This document details the responsible gambling framework, player protection measures, voluntary self-exclusion procedures, and available support resources for patrons at Casino Nova Scotia locations in Halifax and Sydney. Provisions apply to both venues operated by Great Canadian Entertainment under the authority of the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation.
2. Regulatory Authority and Compliance
Casino Nova Scotia functions in accordance with the Gaming Control Act and Casino Regulations (Nova Scotia Regulation 263/2025), supervised by the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division of Service Nova Scotia. All responsible gambling measures conform to applicable provincial regulations and oversight requirements.
2.1 Age Restrictions
Entry is restricted to individuals 19 years of age or older. This policy covers all areas of the properties, including the gaming floors, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Identification may be required upon entry.
2.2 Intoxication Policy
Persons displaying signs of intoxication are prohibited from participating in gaming activities. Staff have discretion to deny gaming access on this basis.
3. Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program
3.1 Program Overview
The Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program allows individuals to exclude themselves from entry and play at both Casino Nova Scotia Halifax and Sydney, applying to gaming, dining, and entertainment areas.
3.2 Enrollment Process
Enrollment is available:
– In person at Responsible Gambling Resource Centres at either casino
– Through casino management or floor staff
– Via the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division offices in Dartmouth
Applicants must complete written forms and provide photographic identification.
3.3 Exclusion Duration Options
Several exclusion periods are available. Individual terms are determined at enrollment.
3.4 Forfeiture of Wins
Participants in self-exclusion forfeit eligibility to collect winnings, prizes, or rewards from either casino during the exclusion period. This includes all gaming results and loyalty program benefits.
3.5 Reinstatement Procedures
Reinstatement after the exclusion period requires a formal application process. It is not automatic upon expiration of the exclusion term.
4. Responsible Gambling Resource Centres
4.1 Halifax Location
The Responsible Gambling Resource Centre in Halifax is located on the gaming floor near the Trapeze Restaurant. Staff provide game information, odds, myth clarification, and budget management advice.
Contact: 902-424-8663
4.2 Sydney Location
The Responsible Gambling Resource Centre in Sydney is located by the main entrance, offering similar services as in Halifax.
Contact: 902-563-3797
4.3 Available Resources
Resource Centres provide:
– Game explanations
– Current odds information
– Clarification of misconceptions about gambling
– Guidance on budget management
– Referrals to mental health and addiction services
5. Online Responsible Gambling Tools
For users of alc.ca (Atlantic Lottery Corporation platform), available tools include:
– Session time limits (30 minutes up to 4.5 hours)
– Mandatory break features with required account re-entry
– Online self-exclusion options (6, 12, 24, or 36 months)
Online self-exclusion is separate from land-based casino programs and requires distinct enrollment.
6. Mental Health and Addiction Support Services
6.1 Crisis Support
The Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line is available 24/7 for gambling-related crises.
Toll-free: 1-888-429-8167
6.2 Ongoing Treatment Services
The Provincial Intake program provides access to counseling and treatment services.
Toll-free: 1-855-922-1122 (business hours, Monday to Friday)
Self-referral is accepted by phone or online. Services are delivered by telephone, video, or in-person as appropriate.
6.3 Community Referral Services
211 Nova Scotia offers free, confidential referral to community organizations and relevant support services.
Available 24/7 at 211 or online.
7. Problem Gambling Recognition
7.1 Behavioral Indicators
Casino staff are trained to observe indicators of potential problem gambling, including:
– Prolonged gaming sessions without breaks
– Signs of distress after losses
– Requests for credit or loans
– Patterns of loss-chasing behavior
7.2 Staff Intervention Procedures
Written procedures exist for intervention when indicators are observed. Staff document all interventions and may provide Resource Centre information or suggest voluntary gaming breaks.
8. Credit and Loan Restrictions
Casino Nova Scotia does not extend credit or enable loans to permanent residents of Nova Scotia for gaming. Limited credit may be available to non-residents, subject to regulatory approval.
9. Player Loyalty Programs
9.1 Program Structure
The Player’s Club loyalty program grants points based on gaming spend, redeemable for complimentary benefits, including event tickets and accommodations.
9.2 Interaction with Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion status results in forfeiture of accrued loyalty points and benefits for its duration. Participation in the loyalty program does not take precedence over self-exclusion provisions.
10. Fraud Prevention and Official Communications
10.1 Authorized Communication Channels
Official communications originate exclusively from:
– Official website: yourbestbet.ca
– Verified Great Canadian Entertainment social media accounts
– Direct mail to Player’s Club-registered addresses
– In-person at casino properties
10.2 Mobile Application Warning
No official mobile gaming application is operated by Casino Nova Scotia. Any mobile applications suggesting association are fraudulent. Do not download such applications or submit personal information.
10.3 Reporting Suspected Fraud
Report suspected fraudulent communication to casino management or Great Canadian Entertainment’s corporate office.
11. Regulatory Contact Information
Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division
Service Nova Scotia
780 Windmill Road
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Toll-free within Nova Scotia: 1-877-565-0556
Metro Halifax: 902-424-6160
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
12. Document Updates and Amendments
This document reflects current responsible gambling policies and procedures. Casino Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation reserve the right to update policies and program terms as required by regulation or operational considerations. Patrons are responsible for reviewing the current policies at Resource Centres or via official communication channels.