Is Sports Betting Legal in Florida
Sports betting in Florida has undergone a complex and fascinating journey, ultimately emerging as a legal and regulated activity. As of 2025, the Sunshine State offers a unique sports betting landscape dominated by the Seminole Tribe and Hard Rock Bet.
Legal Status of Sports Betting
Sports betting is indeed legal in Florida, with Hard Rock Bet currently operating as the only active sports betting site in the state. Florida is notably the third most populous state in the United States and, as of 2025, the most populous state to have legalized sports betting.
Historical Context
The story of legalized sports betting in Florida begins in 2018 when the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), giving states the power to legalize sports betting. While numerous states quickly seized this opportunity, Florida remained inactive until 2021.
The Seminole Tribe’s Pivotal Role
The Seminole Tribe and the state of Florida reached a groundbreaking agreement known as “The 2021 Gaming Compact”. This historic deal:
- Granted the Tribe exclusive gaming rights
- Established a monopoly on sports betting in Florida
- Allowed for retail sports betting in casinos
- Promised potential online sports betting
The agreement was financially significant, costing the Tribe $2.5 billion in the first five years, with revenue sharing continuing until 2051.
Legal Challenges
In August 2021, the agreement was challenged when West Flagler Associates filed a lawsuit to block the Gaming Compact. They argued that Governor Ron DeSantis and the state legislature exceeded their power, which resulted in a hearing and delayed sports betting launch.
Current Sports Betting Landscape
Hard Rock Bet: The Sole Operator
Mobile betting returned on November 7, 2023, with Hard Rock Bet introducing its revamped product. By December 5, 2023, the app became available to all of Florida, allowing bettors to place wagers from anywhere in the state.
Key Regulations
- Age Requirement: Adults 21 and over are permitted to place sports wagers on the Hard Rock Bet app or website, or by visiting a retail sportsbook at a tribal casino.
- Geographical Restrictions: Hard Rock Bet uses geofencing technology to restrict out-of-state bettors. If you leave Florida’s borders, you cannot place wagers on the app.
- Betting Options: Floridians can bet on a wide range of sporting events, including:
- American football
- Aussie Rules Football
- Boxing
- Darts
- Golf
- Handball
- Hockey
- Jai alai
- MMA/UFC
- Rugby
- Soccer
- Table tennis
- Tennis
- Volleyball
- Certain Olympic and winter sports
Betting Limitations
Some restrictions are in place:
- Prop bets on college athletes are not allowed
- High school sports betting is prohibited
- Everything else is generally permitted, provided it’s available on Hard Rock Bet
Taxation and Winnings
With no state income tax, Florida sports bettors only need to pay the federally mandated 24% on gambling winnings over $600. Fortunately, gambling losses can offset these winnings.
Future Outlook
While the current market is limited, there’s potential for expansion. A competitive market with industry giants like FanDuel and DraftKings could arrive no earlier than 2025.
Online Casino Prospects
Currently, online casino gambling remains illegal. The State of Florida is set to revisit the possibility of legalizing online casinos in 2025, though it’s too early to discuss a potential launch date.
Retail Betting Options
Brick-and-mortar sportsbooks are located in all six Seminole casinos. The Hard Rock Sportsbook in Hollywood, FL, is a notable in-person betting venue, featuring:
- 40 self-serve kiosks
- Eight betting windows
- Wall-to-wall live sports action
Regulatory Oversight
While the Florida Gaming Control Commission is responsible for regulating commercial gaming, sports betting is a tribal-controlled entity overseen by the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Tribal Council. The Seminoles must adhere to their compact with the state, which includes contributing a percentage of sports betting revenue to Florida taxpayers.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Florida has evolved from a complex legal battle to a regulated, accessible activity. With Hard Rock Bet, sports betting is now legal across the state for those 21 and older, regardless of whether you’re in Key West, Jacksonville, or Pensacola. As the landscape continues to develop, Florida remains an exciting market for sports betting enthusiasts.
