A buried provision in Nevada's gaming bill redefines what counts as usable space for restricted slot machine licenses—and it could affect your renewal.
Most Nevada salon and personal care owners don't realize that a provision tucked into AB58, a bill primarily about gaming regulation, could affect how they—or their neighboring bars and restaurants—qualify for or renew a restricted gaming license.
Here's what changed, and why it matters to your business planning.
AB58 clarifies a requirement that was previously ambiguous. If your establishment is in a Nevada county with a population of 100,000 or more and you hold or want to renew a restricted gaming license (which allows up to 15 slot machines), you must now demonstrably have at least 2,500 square feet of indoor space.
That's the key word: indoor.
Previously, some establishments counted outdoor patios, covered decks, or semi-enclosed areas toward this 2,500-square-foot minimum. Under AB58, Section 5.5, that's no longer permitted. The indoor-only requirement is now explicit in Nevada law.
This provision directly impacts bars, restaurants, and other hospitality venues seeking or renewing restricted gaming licenses in populous counties. While salons and personal care businesses typically don't hold gaming licenses themselves, the rule matters indirectly: if you operate in a shared space, lease a property, or are considering a location that includes a bar or gaming area, understanding this requirement helps you anticipate operational or lease changes.
More broadly, any business in a county over 100,000 population that relies on gaming revenue should audit its square footage now.
Establishments that previously qualified by combining indoor and outdoor space may no longer meet the threshold if they lose outdoor square footage from their calculation. This could mean:
The law doesn't prohibit outdoor gaming areas—it simply doesn't count them toward the minimum space requirement.
AB58 takes effect July 1, 2025. Establishments with existing restricted gaming licenses should verify their indoor square footage now and contact the Nevada Gaming Control Board if they have questions about their specific situation.
If you're renewing a license after that date, the indoor-only standard will apply to your application.
Review your property's layout and measure indoor space carefully. If you're in a county over 100,000 population (Clark, Washoe, or Lyon), document your indoor square footage. If you hold a restricted gaming license or are considering applying for one, consult with the Nevada Gaming Control Board or a gaming compliance professional to confirm your space qualifies.
The provision is straightforward, but the implications for renewal timelines and property use are real. Acting before July 1, 2025, gives you time to plan.
Source: Nevada Assembly Bill 58 (BDR 41-297), Section 5.5, Page 6.