What does the 5-second rule mean in online casinos?

The 5-second rule is a legal requirement from the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 in Germany, which dictates that every game round on virtual slot machines must last at least five seconds. Anyone looking for online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026 will find international platforms that dispense with this artificial delay and enable smooth gameplay.

Why is there a 5-second rule on slot machines?

The Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 primarily introduced this forced break to preventively curb gambling addiction in Germany. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL), based in Halle (Saale), strictly monitors this requirement for all licensed providers. From a regulatory perspective, the time delay is intended to break the hypnotic effect of fast spins and give players the necessary space to critically reflect on their own betting behavior. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) argues from its headquarters in Halle (Saale) that this deliberate deceleration means significantly less money can be lost in a short period of time.

What impact does the autoplay ban have on the flow of the game?

In addition to the forced break, a strict autoplay ban also applies in Germany. Players must trigger each individual round manually, as the automatic reel spin and the accelerating turbo spin have been completely deactivated. In my tests as a bonus analyst, a massive mathematical problem becomes apparent here: the 5-second rule makes fulfilling a wagering requirement extremely difficult. A typical 100-euro bonus, without turbo spin and with purely manual clicking, often requires over five and a half hours of uninterrupted playing time. The autoplay ban thus not only destroys the dynamics of modern slots, but also makes bonus offers barely realistically playable in terms of time. Those who prefer the familiar, fast game flow are therefore increasingly turning to international alternatives in 2026.

How are LUGAS, OASIS, and the 5-second break connected?

A German license not only requires the 5-second rule, but also mandatory connection to the central IT system LUGAS. LUGAS manages the cross-provider 1000 € deposit limit per month and technically ensures that users are not active on multiple platforms at the same time. This system is flanked by the 1 € bet limit per spin. The GGL enforces these limits centrally and sanctions violations. Once a player has reached the 1000 € deposit limit via LUGAS, the system blocks further transactions immediately. At the same time, the 1 € bet limit, in direct combination with the 5-second break, drastically reduces the maximum financial loss per hour. From the GGL's player protection perspective, it is important to emphasize that these strict limits of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 serve addiction prevention, even if they noticeably restrict the entertainment value for experienced users.

Are online casinos without a 5-second rule legal and safe?

Yes, playing at an online casino without a 5-second rule 2026 is legal for German users, provided the provider has a valid international permit or EU license. These platforms are not subject to the German Interstate Treaty on Gambling, which is why the forced break does not apply. Strict supervisory authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) ensure a safe gaming environment.

Are online casinos without a 5-second rule legal?

From a regulatory perspective - and here I share the assessment of our compliance expert Dr. Hoffmann - the legal situation in 2026 is clear. The Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 introduced the strict DE license for the domestic market. This DE license mandatory requires the 5-second rule and simultaneously prohibits essential functions such as autoplay and classic live casino. In addition, the DE license is inseparably linked to the central IT system LUGAS and the cross-provider 1000 € deposit limit. While the Darmstadt Regional Council (the former Hessian authority for sports betting) still played a central role in the early transition phase, today the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States) monitors this restrictive German framework.

Nevertheless, German players are legally allowed to switch to platforms that hold an EU license. These operators rely on the European freedom to provide services. Since an EU license is not bound by the requirements of the German authorities, the artificial delays between spins are completely eliminated there.

What role do the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and Curaçao play?

In my more than eight years as a casino tester, I have reviewed hundreds of platforms. What this shows is that safety stands and falls with the supervisory authority. The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the central European regulatory body on the island of Malta, issues the EU license that is highly coveted in the industry. A casino licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) must comply with strict European player protection guidelines, but dispenses with the German spin delay.

In parallel, the Caribbean state of Curaçao has undergone a massive transformation. The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), the island's state supervisory authority, is setting entirely new standards in 2026. Under the leadership of Finance Minister Javier Silvania (the driving politician behind the local gambling reform), the old master licenses were replaced by a stricter system. Today, the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB) monitors the providers directly, which raises player protection to a level that can compete with European standards.

In addition to Malta and Curaçao, other international authorities are establishing themselves. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission (an indigenous regulatory authority in Canada) and the Anjouan Gaming Authority (the emerging supervisor of the Comoros island) also issue licenses to reputable operators who work without the German restrictions.

Are casinos without a 5-second rule reputable?

The reputability of a provider does not depend on the German forced break. On the contrary: from a mathematical perspective, international platforms often offer fairer conditions. While providers with a DE license often have to drastically reduce RTP values (payout ratios) due to the German gambling tax, casinos with an EU license keep the original winning chances. In addition, the lack of a break makes fulfilling bonus conditions realistic in the first place - a 40x wagering requirement is hardly achievable in a timely manner without autoplay.

To avoid black sheep, players should look out for the following licensors: Malta Gaming Authority (MGA): As an EU authority in Malta, it guarantees the highest standards of payout security and data protection. Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB): Thanks to the far-reaching reforms of Javier Silvania, Curaçao now offers reliable arbitration procedures in case of disputes. Kahnawake Gaming Commission: This Canadian authority tests the fairness of random number generators just as strictly as its European counterparts. Anjouan Gaming Authority: An increasingly popular alternative that enforces strict anti-money laundering guidelines, similar to what the Darmstadt Regional Council demanded for the German market during its active time.

Anyone who plays in a casino without a 5-second rule should nevertheless always use the provider's own self-limitation tools (such as deposit or loss limits), as the German blocking system OASIS does not apply to these international platforms.

How to bypass the 5-second rule in casinos

Anyone who wants to legally bypass the forced break specifically looks for online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026. These international platforms with an EU license are not subject to the German Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). This eliminates the artificial delay between reel spins, and functions like autoplay remain fully intact for smooth gameplay.

How can I bypass the 5-second rule in the casino?

The 5-second rule, which was introduced in Germany by the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021), forces players to take a manual break between each spin. Since a DE license from the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States) mandatory requires the 5-second rule as well as connection to the LUGAS monitoring system, this requirement cannot be technically deactivated with domestic providers. In addition, the DE license completely prohibits the live casino.

From my experience as a casino tester, there are three primary ways to bypass these restrictions:

Platforms with an EU license: An EU license, issued for example by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), frees operators from the strict German limits. International providers: Crypto platforms like RollingSlots, an established casino with international licensing, allow for fast spins without delay. Alternative models: A sweepstakes casino, which is based on a virtual currency system, often does not fall under the classic real-money regulations in Germany and offers smooth gameplay.

From a regulatory perspective, switching to providers with an EU license is the most common path, as the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) does not apply there. This is particularly important for bonus offers: the 5-second rule makes fulfilling a wagering requirement massively difficult, since wagering mathematically takes a multiple of the time.

Is autoplay also available in casinos without a 5-second rule?

Yes, the autoplay feature, which performs reel spins automatically and without manual clicks, is available by default on international platforms. The DE license strictly prohibits autoplay, as the authorities argue that fast, automatic rounds could have a hypnotic effect and thus promote gambling addiction.

The 5-second rule and autoplay are closely related in terms of regulation: if a provider must implement the 5-second rule, automatic spinning is technically excluded. In an online casino without a 5-second rule 2026, on the other hand, players can determine the game speed themselves. For example, anyone playing at RollingSlots can use autoplay to efficiently clear a wagering requirement without having to click manually for hours.

Is the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) allowed?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), software to disguise one's own IP address, is used by some players in Germany to bypass geoblocking. However, the legal and T&C-compliant situation here is clear: most operators with an EU license strictly prohibit the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in their terms and conditions.

If it is noticed during a withdrawal that a Virtual Private Network (VPN) was used, the casino may cancel winnings. Instead of applying technical tricks, users prefer to switch directly to freely accessible alternatives. These include regular international online slot sites or a sweepstakes casino, where players from Germany can often participate legally without IP masking. Player protection always remains important: even without the strict breaks of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021), players should set their own limits to preventatively counteract the risk of gambling addiction.

Game Selection: Live Casino, Jackpots, and RTP Values

International online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026 offer an unrestricted game selection. While the DE license prohibits table games, the live casino, and progressive jackpots, these are available internationally. In addition, the 1-euro limit is eliminated, and players benefit from unthrottled Return to Player (RTP) rates since the German gambling tax does not apply here.

Why are live casinos and jackpots prohibited under the DE license?

From a regulatory perspective, platforms with a DE license are subject to strict restrictions that go far beyond the mere waiting time at slot machines. The current Interstate Treaty on Gambling completely prohibits classic live casinos. This DE license thus forbids the provision of real dealers, as the live casino is inseparably linked to classic table games like roulette or blackjack, which are supposed to remain reserved for the state monopoly of the federal states.

Likewise, progressive jackpots, which are directly linked to slots as a special win feature, are strictly prohibited by the DE license. The legislator argues here with player protection, as extremely high jackpots and the interactive live casino supposedly create special addiction incentives. Anyone who wants to access these formats in 2026 must switch to international providers, where jackpots and live dealer tables remain standard.

How does the German tax affect the Return to Player (RTP)?

In my tests of bonus wagering requirements, the true price of German regulation is revealed. The Racing Betting and Lottery Act, which regulates national gambling taxation, levies a tax of 5,3 percent on every bet made. In order to economically shoulder this levy under the Racing Betting and Lottery Act, domestic operators drastically lower the theoretical payout ratio, the so-called Return to Player (RTP). While international platforms often offer a Return to Player (RTP) of over 96 percent, this value in Germany frequently drops below 90 percent.

Additionally, the strict 1-euro limit, a legal bet limit per game round, applies to domestic slots. This 1-euro limit, in combination with the 5-second rule, makes clearing bonuses mathematically extremely time-consuming. Without the forced break, however, players can use the turbo spin. The turbo spin, a function to speed up reel spins, is closely related to autoplay. Since autoplay enables automatic round sequences, the turbo spin accelerates this process even further. Both functions are banned in Germany, making the 5-second rule even more noticeable.

Which providers are available internationally?

Since international platforms are not bound by German restrictions, they cooperate with the world's leading software developers. In the field of live dealer games, Evolution Gaming dominates. Evolution Gaming, a Swedish B2B provider for casino streams, offers high-definition table games and innovative game shows that are missing from the German market. Another industry giant is Pragmatic Play. Alongside first-class slot machines, Pragmatic Play also provides an extensive live portfolio.

The fairness of these international providers is regularly monitored by independent testing institutes such as eCOGRA. eCOGRA, a London-based test agency for player protection and standardization, certifies the random number generators and verifies the actual payout ratios. If a casino carries the eCOGRA seal, players can trust that the stated RTP values correspond to reality and that the software from Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play operates manipulation-free. Anyone playing at these providers should nevertheless always keep an eye on their own limits and use self-limitation tools.

Bonus Offers and Wagering Requirements Without Time Limit

In an online casino without a 5-second rule 2026, promotions can be used much more efficiently. Because the state-mandated forced break and the strict 1 € bet limit are eliminated, players can fulfill any wagering requirement in a fraction of the time. In addition, users benefit from unthrottled Return to Player (RTP) values and the return of the convenient autoplay function.

Why can bonuses be cleared faster without the 5-second break?

From a regulatory perspective, it quickly becomes clear why the 5-second rule, which was introduced by the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021, makes clearing bonuses massively difficult. Let's take a practical example from our tests: anyone who receives 100 euros as bonus balance and must fulfill a 30x wagering requirement needs exactly 3,000 spins with a maximum bet of one euro.

Under a strict DE license, which mandatory requires the 1 € bet limit as well as the forced break, this endeavor takes over four hours of uninterrupted clicking. Since the DE license also bans autoplay, this becomes a physical test of endurance. In international gaming sites with an EU license (for example, issued by the Maltese MGA), this hurdle is eliminated. Here, the automated autoplay function speeds up the process enormously.

Another crucial factor is the Return to Player (RTP), i.e., the theoretical payout ratio of a slot machine. Since German providers have to compensate for the 5,3 % gambling tax, the Return to Player (RTP) often drops drastically there. Without the 5-second rule, however, you play with the original, higher RTP values, which increases the mathematical probability of maintaining the bonus balance until the wagering requirement is met.

What do you have to look out for with the wagering requirement?

A wagering requirement defines how many times a granted bonus amount must be wagered in the casino before a real money withdrawal is possible. Even though the lack of a 5-second rule makes meeting this requirement easier in terms of time, players must check the exact conditions. Pay special attention to the following three aspects in the T&Cs:

Maximum bet size: While the DE license generally dictates a 1 € bet limit, international platforms with an EU license usually allow up to five euros per spin during an active bonus. Excluded games: Many operators exclude certain slot machines from the bonus wagering. Often this affects precisely those slots that have a particularly high Return to Player (RTP), as a high Return to Player (RTP) minimizes the loss risk for the casino. Time limits: Check how many days you have available to generate the required turnover.

For reasons of gambling addiction prevention, we always advise only accepting bonuses whose wagering requirements realistically fit your own budget. The Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) offers valuable guidelines for self-control here.

Is there a no deposit bonus in these casinos?

A no deposit bonus is a reward credited to players directly after registration without having to transfer their own money. In the current market landscape, such offers are found almost exclusively with providers that are not bound by the strict German regulations. Some international platforms, for example, grant 7 euros as a no deposit bonus or award free spins for new customers.

Especially crypto casinos and sweepstakes have established themselves as modern alternatives in 2026. These platforms often operate with licenses from Curaçao or under social gaming laws and regularly offer a lucrative no deposit bonus to reach new target audiences. They seamlessly integrate autoplay features and dispense with the 1 € bet limit, making them particularly attractive for crypto enthusiasts. Nevertheless, a fair wagering requirement remains the most important criterion here as well for the eventual cashability of the winnings.

Payment Methods: Limits, Crypto, and Withdrawals

Anyone currently comparing online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026 benefits from more flexible payment methods and higher transaction limits. Since these international providers are not connected to the German monitoring system LUGAS, the strict 1000 € deposit limit does not apply. In addition, they enable privacy-friendly deposits and often dispense with immediate Video Ident verification.

Is the 1000 € deposit limit eliminated with international providers?

From a regulatory perspective, the German license (DE license) is inseparably linked to the IT system LUGAS. LUGAS functions as a central database that strictly monitors the cross-provider 1000 € deposit limit per month for every player. The DE license thus enforces the 1000 € deposit limit for all local operators. OASIS, the state player ban system for addiction prevention, is also mandatory integrated here.

However, in my tests of platforms with licenses from Malta (MGA) or Curaçao, a different picture emerges: since these supervisory authorities are connected to neither LUGAS nor OASIS, the 1000 € deposit limit does not legally apply there. Players can thus set their budgets on their own responsibility. Nevertheless, reputable EU casinos offer internal limits to promote responsible gaming and prevent gambling addiction.

Can you pay with PayPal in a casino without a 5-second rule?

The availability of payment services differs significantly depending on regulation. In the gambling sector, PayPal cooperates almost exclusively with providers that hold a local DE license. Consequently, PayPal is practically not usable in an online casino without a 5-second rule 2026.

The Paysafecard has established itself as a proven alternative. The Paysafecard, a prepaid payment method for anonymous transactions, is frequently supported by platforms with an EU license. An example from our current reviews is Wyns Casino, which accepts Paysafecard for fast deposits. Generally, players will find the following alternatives in these casinos:

E-wallets: MiFinity and Jeton Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard Prepaid options: Paysafecard and Flexepin Direct banking systems: Sofortüberweisung

What advantages do Bitcoin and crypto casinos offer?

A modern crypto casino, i.e., a platform that accepts digital currencies as its primary payment method, offers enormous advantages from a data privacy perspective. The license from Curaçao explicitly allows the use of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. When you use Bitcoin for transactions, you benefit from extremely fast withdrawals and high privacy.

Another plus point in any crypto casino is the simplified registration process. While German regulation under the DE license prescribes immediate Video Ident verification, international crypto providers often dispense with this tedious step during registration. The Know Your Customer (KYC) process, i.e., the legally required identity check for money laundering prevention, is usually only due in a crypto casino at the time of the first larger withdrawal. This eliminates the annoying Video Ident verification right after account opening, which speeds up the start enormously. Nevertheless, the Know Your Customer (KYC) standard remains an important security feature that is also enforced for payments with Bitcoin by reputable operators in Curaçao in order to comply with international money laundering laws.

Player Protection and Responsible Gaming without OASIS

Anyone currently playing in online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026 uses platforms with international licenses. These providers are not connected to the German blocking system OASIS or the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL). Player protection requires more personal responsibility here, since state-imposed limits such as the 1000 € deposit limit via LUGAS do not apply.

How does player protection work without the GGL and OASIS?

From a regulatory perspective, the German market is strictly controlled by the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). This set of rules is enforced by the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL), which issues the DE license. A central component of this regulation is OASIS, the national blocking system, and the parallel play prevention file, which technically blocks simultaneous playing at multiple providers.

However, international platforms operate outside of these systems. Since they are not connected to the parallel play prevention file, they rely on internal control mechanisms. In our tests of EU platforms, it shows that players can set individual loss, deposit, and session limits directly in their own account area. The Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL) has no access to these international providers, which is why player protection here is based on the strict requirements of authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).

What measures help against gambling addiction with EU licenses?

The Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) primarily aims to combat gambling addiction through drastic technical interventions in game mechanics. These include the 5-second rule, which slows down the game speed and mathematically drags out bonus wagering extremely, as well as the mandatory panic button for immediate 24-hour self-exclusions. For holders of the DE license, the cross-provider 1000 € deposit limit is also strictly monitored by the IT system LUGAS.

When players switch to EU-licensed sites, this 1000 € deposit limit managed by LUGAS is completely eliminated. To nevertheless effectively combat gambling addiction, reputable international operators cooperate with independent aid organizations such as GamCare or Gamblers Anonymous. As a technical replacement for the missing OASIS system, we recommend using software blockers like Gamban. These programs block access to all gambling sites worldwide and offer extensive player protection that goes far beyond the national parallel play prevention file.

How does the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification work?

Another massive difference compared to German regulation under the GGL concerns identity verification. While platforms with a DE license require immediate video ident verification, registering with international providers is significantly less complicated. The classic Know Your Customer (KYC) process usually takes place here only before the first withdrawal.

Players then have to upload documents such as an ID card and a current proof of address. This procedure complies with international anti-money laundering guidelines, but dispenses with the artificial hurdles prescribed by German legislators. From a regulatory perspective, the safety of customer funds nevertheless remains fully guaranteed, as EU licenses also require strict data protection specifications and a strict separation of player and business accounts. Anyone wishing to play in a casino without a break thus benefits from a smoother start, but must act with personal responsibility when it comes to player protection.

Conclusion: Which is the best online casino without a 5-second rule 2026?

The best online casino without a 5-second rule 2026 depends on individual preferences, with providers like Spinrollz standing out as the best overall winner and RollingSlots for the game selection. These platforms use international permits to bypass the forced break, thereby maintaining smooth gameplay and unthrottled payout rates for players.

Which is the best online casino without a 5-second rule 2026?

In my current tests as a casino analyst, various platforms have taken the lead. Spinrollz leads the ranking as the strongest all-rounder, while RollingSlots scores particularly well on the game selection without waiting times. Those looking specifically for bonus offers will find attractive conditions at GreenLuck. Providers like Jackpot Piraten (with up to 2000 € bonus) or Jokerstar (350 % up to 5000 €) also position themselves strongly in the market.

Many of these top providers operate as a modern crypto casino. Such a crypto casino, which as a platform primarily accepts digital currencies like Bitcoin, dispenses with the strict German limits and enables lightning-fast transactions. The legal basis for this is often formed by international supervisory authorities. Thus, an EU license is frequently issued by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), as the central European regulatory authority, guarantees strict player protection standards, but still allows an uninterrupted flow of play. Alternatively, many operators act under the supervision of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB). The Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), which monitors the licenses in the Caribbean, allows operators maximum flexibility in game design.

Are there still casinos without a 5-second break?

Yes, these platforms remain widely available in 2026, as players' interest in an undisturbed experience remains constantly high. The 5-second rule was introduced in Germany by the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021. From a regulatory perspective, the DE license mandatory requires the 5-second rule between spins. In addition, the DE license requires a connection to the LUGAS monitoring system.

The strict requirements of the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States) also mean that the DE license prohibits the live casino. A live casino in which real dealers host table games like blackjack via stream can therefore only be found at international providers. Likewise, the DE license bans the autoplay feature. Autoplay, the automatic launching of consecutive game rounds, is essential for many users. Dr. Markus Hoffmann always emphasizes the mathematical consequences of these specifications in our compliance analyses: the 5-second rule makes fulfilling a wagering requirement massively difficult. Anyone wishing to clear a bonus often needs hours of uninterrupted clicks due to the forced break.

Which online casinos have no 5-second rule?

Platforms without this restriction can be divided into two main categories. On the one hand, there are providers with an EU license issued by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). These MGA-regulated sites offer a high level of security without artificially throttling the flow of play. On the other hand, there are platforms monitored by the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB). Under the supervision of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB), almost every well-known crypto casino also operates, offering classic table games alongside crypto payments.

On these international sites, the live casino remains an integral part of the portfolio. In addition, the autoplay function on virtual slot machines is fully usable. Since the forced break is eliminated here, users benefit from a more dynamic experience. Nevertheless, personal responsibility is required: since the German limits do not apply here, players should always use the self-limitation tools to preventatively counteract gambling addiction.

About this Article - Editorial & Responsibility

Author: Sarah Weber - Casino Tester & Bonus Analyst

Expertly reviewed by: Dr. Markus Hoffmann - Senior iGaming Compliance Analyst Last

Updated: 2026-06-23.

This article on "online casinos without a 5-second rule 2026" was written by Sarah Weber and expertly reviewed by Dr. Markus Hoffmann. Both regularly update the content regarding regulatory changes, license availability, and bonus conditions. All statements about licenses, authorities, and legal frameworks refer to publicly accessible sources (GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States), Interstate Treaty on Gambling 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 assessment.

About the Reviewer

12+ years in the iGaming industry, including 5 years as a compliance consultant for licensed operators under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021. PhD in Business Mathematics. Main research areas: bonus mathematics, wager analysis, player protection systems (OASIS).

Responsible Gaming

Gambling can be addictive. If you feel like you are losing control of your gaming 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. Breaks and cooldown functions of the providers are not a sign of weakness - they are a tool for sustainable fun in the game.

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 Federal States). Players themselves are responsible for compliance with local regulations.