Gambling is legal in France but there are many restrictions in order to operate a casino. It is controlled exclusively by Le Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU) and Le Pari Mutuel Hippodrome (PMH). There are approximately eight legalized casinos in central Paris.

Casinos are allowed only in specific areas in France, subject to a licence by the Ministry of Home Affairs and placed under the authority of that ministry and that of the Ministry of the Budget.