Apply to use your venue for weddings

Venues that want to host legal weddings or civil partnership ceremonies must apply for an Approved Premises licence. This licence is issued by us and lasts for three years.

This page explains what you need, how the process works, how long it takes, and what to expect.

Why become an approved venue?

Many couples prefer the convenience of having both their legal ceremony and their reception in one place. By becoming an approved venue, your premises can legally host marriages and civil partnerships— attracting more couples who are looking for licensed spaces to celebrate their special day.

Check if your venue is suitable

Your venue must meet certain national requirements. Before you apply, make sure your venue:

• Is a permanent structure (not a tent, marquee, boat, or temporary building).
• Is not used for religious worship.
• Is safe, accessible, and suitable for the public and our registrars.
• Is available for both civil marriages and civil partnerships.

You may also need:

• Planning permission (if your venue’s use needs to change)
• A current fire risk assessment
• Public liability insurance
• Any relevant premises licences
• Clear floor plans showing the ceremony rooms

What it costs

The fee for a wedding venue licence varies between councils. It usually covers:

• Processing the application
• Inspection visits
• Publishing the public notice
• Your three‑year approval period

Please check our current local fee on this page before applying.

How long it takes

Once we receive your completed application and fee, the process usually takes:

• 8 to 12 weeks, in most cases
• Your application is advertised for 21 days. This gives people the chance to raise objections.
• Longer if your venue needs structural, safety or accessibility changes

We’ll keep you updated if we need anything else from you.

What you need to include with your application

Before starting your application, make sure you have:

• Your completed application form
• Fire risk assessment
• Any required planning permission
• Public liability insurance certificate
• Relevant premises licence
• Floor plans (A3 or smaller) showing room names and measurements
• Details of all rooms you want licensed

How to apply (step-by-step)

• Step 1 - Check your venue meets the rules - Make sure your building is eligible and has the right safety and accessibility measures in place.
• Step 2 - Gather your documents - Use the checklist above so you don’t miss anything.
• Step 3 - Submit your application and pay the fee - Applications must be made by the owner or manager of the venue.
• Step 4 - We arrange a venue inspection - A registrar or officer will visit your venue to check it meets the national regulations.
• Step 5 - We publish a public notice - Your application is advertised for 21 days. This gives people the chance to raise objections.
• Step 6 - We make a decision - If approved, your venue will be licensed for three years. You’ll receive written confirmation and your venue will be added to the national list of approved premises.

Conditions of your licence

• Keep the licensed rooms clean, well‑maintained, and suitable for ceremonies
• Maintain accessibility and safety requirements
• Allow both civil marriages and civil partnerships
• Ensure ceremonies are carried out with dignity and respect
• Tell us if anything significant changes at your venue

Renewing your licence

National guidance

Contact us