Premises approval for marriage or civil ceremonies
How to obtain a licence to allow civic marriages and civic partnerships to take place
| Licence summary | To allow civic marriages and civic partnerships to take place in certain premises, such as hotels, stately homes, and civic halls, approval must be sought from the local authority. A fee is payable. Conditions will apply. Approvals are valid for a period of 3 years. |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | Applications must be made by the proprietor or trustee of the premises. Applicants must provide three copies of the plan of the premises clearly identifying the room(s) in which marriages will be solemnised if approval is granted. |
| Regulation Summary | |
| Application Evaluation Process | In addition to being satisfied that the requirements relating to the type of premises are met, the authority will have to consult with the fire authority and will be assured that the premises comply with their requirements as well as any relating to health and safety. Authorities will also need to be assured that the local planning authority is content that the premises can be regularly used for these proceedings. |
| Will Tacit Consent Apply? | Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from the local authority within 6 weeks. |
| Apply online | Apply for approval of premises as a venue for marriages and civil partnerships |
| Failed Application Redress | An applicant may seek a review by the local authority of its decision to refuse to grant an approval, to attach local conditions, to refuse to renew an approval or to revoke an approval. A fee maybe charged. |
| Licence Holder Redress | Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance. You have the right to seek a review of the local authority's imposition of conditions, refusal to renew or revocation of approval. You must deliver your request for review to the proper officer of the local authority, accompanied by any requested fee. |
| Consumer Complaint | We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre. |
| Other Redress | Any person objecting to an application may give written notice of their objection to the local authority, stating the reasons for the objection within 21 days from the date on which the public advertisement appeared. |
| Trade Associations |