The state does not allow internet gambling, which means that popular online poker operators such as. The only sites available in California are offshore poker sites. Online poker is not yet allowed in California, meaning that the state doesn't issue licenses to poker operators. However, that doesn't prevent players from finding. . Yes, home poker games are legal in California, as long as the host of the game doesn't take a rake from the pots or require any sort of fee from the players. California does not currently have its own online poker industry. California online poker FAQ . So yes, since online poker is played at home with the only gains being your winnings, it's perfectly legal. Only a handful of US states have legal online poker sites that are licensed to operate. Online poker California is not legal, however, there are options. Instead, Cali residents can. Can you play PokerStars in CA. A number of online poker sites state that poker is not illegal in California because California law no longer criminalizes the playing of. The state has earned that reputation thanks largely to the card clubs that. Despite the lack of state-regulated online poker, playing internet poker for real money remains completely legal for California residents. What about Online poker operators? There are no. No, PokerStars isn't legal in California.