Places for civil marriages - Period Approval Certificate
Apply Online
Please note that although we do not require a digital signature to be added to online applications, if you submit your application electronically, we will post out a copy to you or your agent for signature. The hard copy form will be sent to you at the address given by you or your agent on the application form. The processing of your licence application will continue, pending receipt of the signed form. However, if a decision is taken to grant the licence or permission, the licence documents will not be issued to you unless and until the signed form has been received by us.
Licence Summary
If you wish to offer marriages or civil ceremonies at your premises or vessel, your premises or vessel must be registered with your local authority.
Applications for registration must include specified information and be accompanied by a fee.
Applications may be for permanent or temporary approval.
You must comply with conditions attached to an approval.
Eligibility Criteria
The application must be in writing (including by electronic means) and include the name and address of the applicant and a description of the place or, for vessels, the intended position of the vessel in sufficient detail to allow a local authority inspection.
In addition, temporary approvals must include the date and time of the intended marriage.
A fee maybe payable.
Regulation Summary
Application Evaluation Process
Your premises or vessel maybe inspected.
Public notice will be given and any objections by the public must be considered.
Approval will not be granted if:
- the application is not in the correct format
- the place or vessel would compromise the solemnity and dignity of civil marriage
- the place is in religious premises
- the place or vessel is deemed unsuitable
The local authority must have regard to the guidance issued by the Registrar General.
The applicant must be a fit and proper person.
Conditions may be attached to approvals.
Will Tacit Consent Apply?
No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it. You can contact the local authority online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.
Failed Application Redress
Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.
You have the right of appeal to the sheriff against a refusal of the application.
If you have had an application refused the local authority will not consider another application in respect of the same place or vessel within one year unless there has been a material change of circumstance.
Licence Holder Redress
Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.
You have the right of appeal to the sheriff against a conditions attached to the granting of approval.
If your approval is revoked, suspended or varied you will be given the opportunity to be heard by the local authority. You also have the right of appeal to the sheriff.
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 of a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
Other Redress
If you object to an application for approval you may give notice to the local authority within 21 days from the date on which public notice was given.
Trade Associations
None.