Coin-Operated Machines Need Annual County Permits

A pinball table, claw machine, or small game in the corner can still be a permit issue. In El Paso County, public places with taxable coin-operated machines need a county permit for each machine. The permit is renewed each year through the Tax Office.

The permit belongs on the machine itself. The county defines taxable machines broadly, while carving out some exemptions, including certain vending machines and machines made only for children.

Bars, laundromats, stores, and game rooms should get the county application lined up while a machine is still new. Adding one mid-year is when paperwork tends to slip.