Sportsbook in California 2026: Are Sportsbooks Legal in the Golden State?

Are sports betting sites in California legal?

Simply put, no. Sports betting sites aren't legal in California. There’s been no let up on the legal restrictions prohibiting the use of real money bookmakers in the Golden State, so any hope of placing legal cash wagers on the Lakers, Dodgers, or Giants is a false one.

Are social sportsbooks legal in California?

For the past few years social sportsbooks have been operating legally in California and considered to be a strong alternative to regular sportsbooks. All that has changed now that AB 831 has been enacted into law - taking effect on January 1, 2026.

This new legislation means that all social sportsbooks, sweepstakes casinos and sites or apps that operate using a virtual dual currency system where real-world prizes can be redeemed will be banned from January 1, 2026. Any sites still operating on or after that date will be breaking the law and run the risk of receiving a misdemeanor, a $25,000 fine and up to a year in county jail.

The law is very comprehensive and makes it clear that it's also illegal to promote sweepstakes casinos, and create content that promotes the use of sweepstakes casinos in California.

Best sports betting sites in California FAQs