Introduction: How do casinos without OASIS work?

New online casinos without OASIS 2026 are international gambling providers that are not connected to the German blocking system. They operate under foreign licenses and offer players unrestricted access to live games, higher betting limits, and dispense with the strict monitoring mechanisms of German regulation, but require more personal responsibility for player protection.

What exactly is the OASIS blocking system?

OASIS (Online Query System for Gambling), the central blocking database for the German gambling market, was established as a core instrument for player protection. From a regulatory perspective, the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL), the central German gambling regulator, monitors strict compliance with these requirements. The Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) not only enforces OASIS (Online Query System for Gambling), but also enforces the 5-second rule for spins and the cross-provider €1,000 deposit limit.

Originally technically maintained by the Government Presidium Darmstadt, the former responsible Hessian transitional authority, the system today compares player data in the background with each login. This is mandatory for all regulated platforms - such as providers like Jackpot Piraten, which are licensed by the GGL. If an entry exists, access is immediately blocked. Such a block can be initiated by the player themselves with a click or as a third-party block by relatives for at least three months. To curb the unregulated market, authorities are also discussing network blocks, i.e., technical blockades at the provider level, for unlicensed sites.

How does data comparison with LUGAS work?

While OASIS primarily controls access, LUGAS (Cross-State Gambling Supervision System) functions as the IT system for activity monitoring, which monitors users' financial and time limits. In my tests of licensed platforms, LUGAS and OASIS work closely together to effectively prevent parallel play. Players must log out from one site and take a several-minute break before logging in at another provider is possible.

Additionally, LUGAS strictly controls the monthly deposit limit across providers. If a player has already deposited €400 at one casino, they can only transfer €600 more network-wide in the same month. Many users perceive this comprehensive monitoring as a massive invasion of privacy, which fuels demand for alternatives.

Can the OASIS block be circumvented?

Yes, it is possible to legally circumvent the restrictions by switching to platforms with international licenses. The Gambling State Treaty, the legal foundation of German regulation, completely prohibits live casino games and bonus buy features, which is why players increasingly turn to offshore casinos. These providers are not connected to German databases, which eliminates automatic comparison.

The Gambling State Treaty also severely restricts payment service providers. For example, PayPal is blocked by the Gambling State Treaty for unregulated offshore transactions. Nevertheless, international casinos offer quick alternatives through crypto payments or modern e-wallets. While the Government Presidium Darmstadt previously issued initial warnings to payment processors and the GGL could theoretically impose network blocks against such international operators, these often remain ineffective in practice. Those who choose these alternatives benefit from higher payout rates and the elimination of betting limits, but must manage player protection on their own responsibility.

Legal Framework: Legality in Germany for new online casinos without OASIS 2026

New online casinos without OASIS 2026 operate in a legal gray area. From the perspective of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL), they are not legal in Germany because they circumvent the Gambling State Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021). From a European law perspective, however, these international providers rely on EU freedom of services, which makes the legal situation complex.

Are online casinos without OASIS legal in Germany?

From a regulatory perspective, the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL), as the central German supervisory authority, classifies platforms without a local license as impermissible. The Gambling State Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021) requires all legally operating operators to be connected to the national blocking system. International operators, who often hold licenses from Malta or Curaçao, argue instead with European freedom of services, which protects cross-border digital offerings within the EU.

A significant economic difference in this legal tension is taxation. While domestic operators must pay gambling tax (5.3%) on every bet placed, this gambling tax (5.3%) is completely eliminated for offshore casinos. This often results in mathematically better payout rates (RTP) on unregulated platforms, since the tax burden is not passed on to players.

Casino with or without OASIS: The direct comparison

What role does the GGL play in Halle (Saale)?

The Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) with its headquarters in Halle (Saale) is the executive body of German gambling law. Under the leadership of board members Ronald Benter and Benjamin Schwanke, the authority in Halle (Saale) strictly enforces the legal framework. Ronald Benter and Benjamin Schwanke regularly emphasize in their strategic directions that player protection and combating the black market are top priorities.

To enforce the Gambling State Treaty, the GGL enforces the use of OASIS, monitors the 5-second rule per spin, and controls the €1,000 deposit limit. Providers like Jackpot Piraten are directly licensed by the GGL. In this process, this authority also manages the IT system LUGAS, which monitors cross-provider deposit limits. Likewise, established brands like LeoVegas, Stargames, and Lapalingo are in direct legal relationship with the GGL and must comply with its requirements. Payment service providers like PayPal also cooperate exclusively with the GGL and its licensed partners on the German market.

When international operators ignore these rules, the regulator increasingly resorts to network blocks. These network blocks, i.e., technical IP blockades by internet providers, are intended to prevent German users from accessing unregulated sites, although the legal and technical effectiveness of such measures is often debated.

Do players face legal consequences?

In our tests of international platforms, users often wonder about personal risk. Regulatory practice clearly shows: law enforcement focuses on unregulated operators and payment processors, not on individual players.

However, those who consciously choose a casino without a blocking database bear significantly more personal responsibility for their gambling behavior. In disputes over payouts, blocked accounts, or unclear bonus terms, players cannot rely on help from German authorities. Protection against gambling addiction lies entirely in the hands of the user, which is why we always recommend consistently using the provider's internal limit functions for deposits and losses.

Secure licenses for new online casinos without OASIS 2026

Those looking for new online casinos without OASIS 2026 find secure alternatives through international regulatory authorities. Platforms with licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority, from Curaçao or Anjouan offer legal gambling fun without the German blocking database. These supervisory authorities guarantee fair payout rates, data protection, and reliable player protection at a global level.

Which authorities regulate international casinos?

From a regulatory perspective, in 2026 there are several established supervisory authorities that dominate the international market. The Malta Gaming Authority, the central European gambling regulator, sets the gold standard for player protection and data protection. Alternatively, Caribbean and African states issue licenses that do not require connection to the German blocking system. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, an indigenous regulatory authority from Canada, has been licensing reliable platforms for years that give players flexibility away from strict German limits. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission places great emphasis on secure frameworks, even though it is not linked to the German system.

A massive trend in my tests is evident with Anjouan. The Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA), the financial and gambling regulator of the autonomous island, has established itself as a modern alternative. The Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA) impresses with fast approval procedures and fair requirements, making it particularly attractive for crypto platforms. Costa Rica, a country in Central America, also traditionally serves as a base for gambling companies. Costa Rica functions more as a business location than as a classic regulatory authority, which is why players must particularly pay attention to the reputation of providers. Nevertheless, some operators relocate there to serve international markets.

Curaçao vs. MGA: What are the differences?

The comparison between the Caribbean and Europe shows clear conceptual differences. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) requires operators to comply with strict EU guidelines, which promotes classic payment methods, standardized game offerings, and regulated bonus activities with free spins. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) also offers quick dispute resolution and maximum transparency in license issuance.

In contrast, Curaçao, a Dutch overseas territory, is known for its crypto-friendliness. In Curaçao, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum are seamlessly supported, enabling modern payment processes without rigid deposit limits. Supervision falls to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), the island's official gambling authority. The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) monitors compliance with the new legal framework, particularly the Landsverordening op de Kansspelen (LOK). This Landsverordening op de Kansspelen (LOK), the island's updated gambling law, ensures improved international standards while maintaining flexibility for large game portfolios. From a regulatory perspective, the Malta Gaming Authority offers the highest formal protection, while Curaçao, through LOK reforms, creates a secure but significantly freer environment.

How to identify legitimate offshore licenses?

In my tests of over 200 platforms, I always first check the validity of the license seals in the website footer. A legitimate casino links directly to the register of the respective authority. When evaluating new online casinos without OASIS 2026, make sure the seal is clickable:

EU licenses: A click on the Malta Gaming Authority logo leads to the official certificate page, confirming active status. The Malta Gaming Authority hereby guarantees verified data protection. Caribbean licenses: For providers from Curaçao, the seal directs to the verification page of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB). Under the new Landsverordening op de Kansspelen (LOK), this digital transparency is mandatory for all legally operating platforms in Curaçao. Other offshore authorities: The Anjouan Offshore Finance Authority (AOFA) in Anjouan and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission also offer digital certificates confirming legal operation. Even for providers registered in Costa Rica, company information should be transparently displayed in the imprint, as Costa Rica does not issue classic dynamic license seals.

Even though these platforms are not connected to the German block, players should always set manual limits in their account to manage their budget responsibly.

Elimination of German limits and restrictions

For new online casinos without OASIS 2026, the strict requirements of the German Gambling State Treaty are completely eliminated. Players are not bound by the cross-provider €1,000 deposit limit and can manage their budgets with personal responsibility. The 5-second rule and the €1 limit per spin also do not exist here, enabling more dynamic gameplay including autoplay functionality.

Is there a €1,000 limit in casinos without OASIS?

No, a cross-provider €1,000 deposit limit, which functions as a statutory deposit ceiling, does not exist at these international platforms. The current Gambling State Treaty, the legal foundation of German regulation, mandates this strict €1,000 monthly deposit limit to minimize financial risks. The GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States), the central German gambling regulator, monitors and enforces this €1,000 deposit limit in direct connection with the blocking system.

From a regulatory perspective, however, the elimination of this limit does not mean player protection is completely absent. In our tests of offshore providers, users instead set their deposit limits manually and individually in their own customer account. Since OASIS, the central German player blocking system, does not apply at these providers, no automatic data comparison takes place. Thus, the rigid €1,000 deposit limit is eliminated, which particularly gives high-rollers more financial freedom, but simultaneously requires a higher degree of personal responsibility. International providers often use licenses from Curaçao or Anjouan. These licenses do not require connection to the German blocking database, which means the GGL has no legal authority here.

Does the 5-second rule also apply in casinos without OASIS?

No, game rounds can be completed at normal speed without mandatory pauses. The so-called 5-second rule, a statutory requirement to slow down the pace of play on virtual machines, is enforced exclusively by the GGL on the domestic market. This authority enforces the 5-second rule in parallel with OASIS connection to prevent impulsive betting.

In international gaming halls, this artificial delay is completely eliminated. As a result, the autoplay function is also available again to players. The autoplay function, a technical feature for automatic reel spins without manual clicking, is prohibited in Germany but is standard internationally. In my practice as a casino tester, users particularly appreciate the return of turbo spins and unrestricted game mechanics, as the gameplay flow is not interrupted after each round.

How high are the maximum bets per spin?

While the Gambling State Treaty strictly regulates bets on German slots, these restrictions fall away abroad. The statutory €1 limit, which defines the maximum bet per reel spin in Germany, does not exist at international operators. Without this €1 limit, players can place significantly higher amounts per spin, which is also advantageous for free spins and bonus wagering.

The differences can be illustrated in a clear comparison:

Bet amount: No €1 limit. Bets of €50 or more per spin are easily possible on many machines. Gameplay: Neither the 5-second rule nor the autoplay ban slows down the dynamics. Budgeting: The €1,000 deposit limit is replaced by flexible, user-controlled limits. Control: The GGL enforces OASIS only domestically. Offshore licenses rely on manual self-exclusions.

From a regulatory perspective, it is important to emphasize that the elimination of the €1,000 deposit limit increases freedom, but players must necessarily set their own limits in their account to act responsibly.

Game selection: Live casino, jackpots, and features

The game selection in new online casinos without OASIS 2026 includes the complete portfolio of international developers, as there is no connection to the German blocking database. While the Gambling State Treaty completely prohibits live casino games and bonus buy features, these are unrestricted here. Players also benefit from higher payout rates (Return to Player (RTP)), because German gambling tax is eliminated.

Why are live casinos allowed here?

From a regulatory perspective, the German Gambling State Treaty completely prohibits classic live casino games with real dealers and banking table games. However, in my tests of international platforms, licenses from Curaçao or Anjouan do not apply these strict restrictions. A modern live casino there continues to offer high-definition streams for roulette, blackjack, and interactive game shows. In addition to the classic live casino, these unregulated portfolios also feature progressive jackpots, which grow network-wide with each player bet and can provide enormous prize pools, especially for slots. Equally in high demand are modern crash games, where players must secure a rising multiplier before a virtual crash. Since the Gambling State Treaty blocks live casino games, progressive jackpots, and crash games on the domestic market, many users deliberately switch to international alternatives to experience these game categories without automatic blocking.

How do bonus buy and autoplay work?

The German Gambling State Treaty strictly prohibits bonus buy features and the autoplay function to artificially slow down gameplay and protect players. However, at international providers for new online casinos without OASIS 2026, these mechanics are standard repertoire. Bonus buy features are special purchase options linked directly to slots that allow players to immediately trigger the lucrative free spin round for a fixed amount. Well-known developer studios like Nolimit City and Hacksaw Gaming intensively integrate bonus buy features into their high-volatility titles to give impatient players direct access to the action. Nolimit City is particularly known for complex mechanics where direct free spin purchases often slightly modify the Return to Player (RTP). Additionally, the autoplay function allows hundreds of spins to start automatically without constant manual clicks. In our 2026 tests, the autoplay function significantly increases comfort during long sessions at slots, although players should always responsibly monitor their budget during these fast rounds through provider-internal limits.

Are the payout rates (RTP) higher?

A decisive factor for experienced users is the Return to Player (RTP), the theoretical payout rate of a game. Return to Player (RTP) is directly linked to slots and indicates what percentage of placed bets flows back to players in the long term. In regulated German gaming halls, this value often drops to 88 to 90 percent, as operators must pass on the state gambling tax of 5.3 percent to the bets. Without this tax burden, international platforms offer an original RTP (Return to Player) of an average of 95 to 97 percent on machines. As can be confirmed from a compliance perspective, RTP (Return to Player) is also closely linked to bonus buy features, as the targeted purchase of free spins often raises the mathematical expected value by fractions of a percent. Especially with high-volatility games, this uncut Return to Player (RTP) becomes noticeably apparent over longer sessions, as large wins are rarer here but correspondingly higher.

Top game developers for new online casinos without OASIS 2026

Those who switch to international platforms in 2026 gain access to the complete portfolio of renowned software studios. While the German Gambling State Treaty technically restricts many developers, unregulated alternatives offer thousands of titles from industry giants. These new online casinos without OASIS 2026 impress with innovative mechanics, unlimited betting structures, and a gigantic game selection.

Which providers offer games without OASIS?

In my extensive tests of over 200 platforms, one thing is clear: when players search for new online casinos without OASIS 2026, the sheer variety of providers is often the decisive reason for switching. The German Gambling State Treaty completely prohibits classic live casino games like roulette or blackjack for virtual slot machines. From a regulatory perspective, this means that market leaders in live casino games, such as Evolution Gaming, are severely restricted on the German market. Evolution Gaming, the Swedish pioneer of high-definition real-time table games, can only fully deploy its technological potential on offshore platforms.

For slot machines, studios known for high volatility dominate. Pragmatic Play, a leading developer of modern video slots, supplies its games to well-known providers like Wildz. Wildz in turn relies heavily on Pragmatic Play to offer its users a portfolio of over 1,000 titles. At the same time, Pragmatic Play also cooperates with LeoVegas, which underscores the enormous reach of the provider.

A central mathematical aspect of these machines is the Return to Player (RTP). Return to Player (RTP), the theoretical payout rate, is directly linked to slots and typically ranges between 95 and 97 percent at international providers. Particularly interesting for experienced users is that Return to Player (RTP) is also closely linked to bonus buy features. When players buy directly into free spin rounds, the mathematical expected value often changes. These bonus buy features dynamically influence Return to Player (RTP) and are often technically impossible to implement in Germany. Developers like Nolimit City are famous in the industry for precisely these bonus buy features, which enable extreme win multipliers. Hacksaw Gaming has also gained its reputation through innovative bonus buy features and unusual betting structures. Both Nolimit City and Hacksaw Gaming are therefore often missing from regulated German gaming halls, as adapting their complex mechanics to strict betting limits is economically unprofitable.

What are crash games and why are they so popular?

Alongside classic reel games, modern crash games are conquering the market. Crash games are extremely fast, often crypto-based multiplier games where players must secure their bet before a sudden "crash" of the curve. Their immense popularity results from the high gameplay speed and the player's complete control over the risk. Since there are no rigid limits or artificial 5-second delays here, these titles offer action that would be unthinkable on regulated platforms. From an addiction prevention perspective, however, such rapid formats require strict personal bankroll management, as total losses can occur in fractions of a second.

What does Provably Fair mean in crypto games?

A technological milestone that becomes standard especially in crypto casinos with offshore licenses (such as Anjouan or Curaçao) is the Provably Fair concept. Provably Fair is a blockchain-based cryptographic algorithm that allows the player to mathematically verify the randomness and fairness of each individual game result themselves. Instead of blindly relying on external testing labs, Provably Fair guarantees absolute transparency in real time. This technology is particularly common in the previously mentioned crash titles and definitively ensures that operators cannot manipulate payout rates during the running round.

Payment methods: Crypto, e-wallets, and restrictions for new online casinos without OASIS 2026

Those visiting new online casinos without OASIS 2026 benefit from modern payment options beyond strict German restrictions. While classic e-wallets like PayPal are missing, cryptocurrencies, credit cards, and alternative wallets like MiFinity and Jeton dominate the cashier area. Payouts are usually faster but remain subject to international anti-money laundering guidelines.

What payment methods do casinos without OASIS offer?

In my tests of international platforms, one clear trend emerges: the cashier area is significantly broader than at regulated German providers. Since certain local services are unavailable, other globally operating financial service providers come into focus for players.

Credit cards & instant banking: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere without fees. For quick bank transfers, many players use third-party providers like Klarna, while Giropay, popular in Germany, is rarely found at international addresses. Alternative e-wallets: Since well-known services are often unavailable, MiFinity and Jeton establish themselves as standard. MiFinity, a British e-wallet, enables lightning-fast and secure top-ups. Similarly, Jeton, another global digital wallet, offers excellent infrastructure for users who don't want to provide their bank details directly to the casino. Both MiFinity and Jeton excel with high acceptance in the offshore industry. Cryptocurrencies: Digital assets form the most important pillar for fast and discreet transactions.

Why is PayPal often missing from these casinos?

From a regulatory perspective, the absence of certain payment service providers is a direct consequence of current legislation. PayPal, the well-known US payment service provider, has significantly tightened its internal compliance guidelines in recent years. PayPal is heavily restricted by the German Gambling State Treaty (GlüStV) and now cooperates exclusively with providers that hold an official license from the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States).

Therefore, PayPal is simply not available at international gaming halls. Those seeking new online casinos without OASIS 2026 must accept that PayPal, due to this strict GGL binding, does not process transactions to platforms without a German license. The blocking database connection has become a mandatory criterion for this service provider.

How do deposits with crypto work?

A modern crypto casino - a platform that primarily relies on blockchain payments - offers enormous speed advantages for deposits and withdrawals. Particularly licenses from Curaçao and Anjouan actively support cryptocurrencies and provide the appropriate legal framework for this technology. In practice, players transfer their cryptocurrencies directly from their private wallet to the casino's generated address.

In addition to volatile coins like Bitcoin or Ethereum, professionals often use Tether (USDT). Tether (USDT) is a so-called stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, thus eliminating typical price fluctuations during the gaming session.

Despite the often-advertised anonymity in crypto casinos, there are legal limits. The international anti-money laundering law (GwG), which prevents illegal financial flows, applies even to offshore providers. To comply with the anti-money laundering law (GwG), legitimate operators must conduct a KYC (Know Your Customer) process. This KYC (Know Your Customer) identity verification protocol typically becomes due at the latest before the first major withdrawal. Thus, basic protection remains in place while transactions themselves proceed discreetly and without the rigid €1,000 limit.

Withdrawals, KYC process, and taxes

Those seeking new online casinos without OASIS 2026 benefit from faster withdrawals and the elimination of German gambling tax (5.3%). Nevertheless, players must complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process, as international providers are bound by the anti-money laundering law (GwG). Winnings can be withdrawn fee-free via cryptocurrencies or e-wallets.

How does KYC verification work?

In my tests of over 200 platforms, one thing is clear: even without a German blocking database, there is no complete anonymity. Every legitimate provider conducts a KYC (Know Your Customer) process. KYC (Know Your Customer) is the legally mandated identity verification that ensures winnings reach the rightful person and prevents fraud. From a regulatory perspective, this is mandatory, as international supervisory authorities must strictly enforce the anti-money laundering law (GwG). The anti-money laundering law (GwG) requires casinos to request documents such as a photo ID and current proof of address at the latest upon first withdrawal or for suspicious transactions.

Well-known EU platforms like Wildz are licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority. Wildz is among providers where the Malta Gaming Authority, one of Europe's strictest supervisory authorities, applies particularly detailed verification standards. The verification process here typically takes only a few hours but is essential for a successful withdrawal.

What limits apply to daily withdrawals?

A massive advantage of international platforms are flexible transaction limits. While strict deposit limits exist in Germany, these are eliminated here. Various options are available for daily withdrawals:

Cryptocurrencies: Digital assets like Bitcoin or USDT are primarily supported by licenses from Curaçao. Curaçao is an established offshore regulatory authority that allows cryptocurrencies for fast, often unlimited withdrawals. MiFinity: This modern e-wallet enables swift transfers and often offers limits of up to €2,500 per transaction. MiFinity is particularly popular with players who want to avoid classic bank transfers. Jeton: As another digital wallet, Jeton offers secure withdrawals with similarly high daily limits. Jeton excels through simple app control and high acceptance among international operators.

VIP players can often significantly increase these base limits through customer support, which is particularly attractive for high-rollers.

Are there fees for winning payouts?

Winning payouts typically incur no direct casino fees if modern methods are used. A decisive financial advantage is the elimination of German gambling tax (5.3%). Gambling tax (5.3%) is a state levy on every bet placed, which is completely eliminated at offshore providers. This allows these platforms to offer noticeably higher payout rates (RTP) of up to 99 percent in the live segment.

Those withdrawing their winnings via MiFinity or Jeton should only consider the network's own fees from the payment service providers, as the casino itself typically processes these transfers free of charge. Even with cryptocurrency withdrawals, only the usual blockchain network fees apply. Since Curaçao casinos natively integrate these cryptocurrencies, the process is extremely fast. In contrast, providers under the Malta Gaming Authority tend to rely on classic bank transfers, which are also fee-free but sometimes slower.

In summary, playing on these platforms means more freedom but also more personal responsibility. Without the central blocking system, players must manage their budgets themselves and set limits manually in their account. The combination of eliminated tax and flexible withdrawals is attractive but requires a high degree of discipline.

About this article - Editorial & Responsibility

Author: Sarah Weber - Casino Tester & Bonus Analyst Professionally reviewed by: Dr. Markus Hoffmann - Senior iGaming Compliance Analyst Last updated: 2026-06-23.

This article on "new online casinos without OASIS 2026" was written by Sarah Weber and professionally reviewed by Dr. Markus Hoffmann. Both regularly update the content regarding regulatory changes, license availability, and bonus terms. All statements about licenses, authorities, and legal frameworks refer to publicly accessible sources (GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States), Gambling State Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021)).

About the author

8+ years of casino reviews, 200+ personally tested platforms in EU and internationally. Former member of the eCOGRA Player Advocacy Program (2018-2022). Specialization: wagering requirements, payout workflows, customer support evaluation.

About the reviewer

12+ years in the iGaming industry, including 5 years as compliance consultant for licensed operators under the Gambling State Treaty 2021. PhD in economic mathematics. Research focus: bonus mathematics, wager analysis, player protection systems (OASIS).

Responsible gambling

Gambling can be addictive. If you feel you are losing control of your gambling behavior, please contact BzgA Gambling Addiction Help, Check-dein-Spiel.de, or use the central blocking system (OASIS (central player blocking system)). Set personal deposit and loss limits before playing with real money. Provider breaks and cooldown functions are not a sign of weakness - they are a tool for sustainable gambling enjoyment.

Legal notice

The information in this article is for editorial and comparison purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The legal assessment of online gambling without a German license is a gray area and is subject to ongoing adjustments by the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States). Players are personally responsible for compliance with local regulations.