How to become a Licensed Venue for Civil Marriage and Civil Partnership

1. Overview
2. Introduction
3. Background
4. What type of premises is suitable?
5. Outdoor ceremonies
6. Licence requirements
7. Application procedure
8. Planning Permission
9. Statutory conditions
10. Additional licence conditions
11. General guidance
12. Working in partnership
13. Help with your application

2. Introduction

Please ensure that you have read these notes before applying to license your venue.

Before completing the application form you must:

• Be satisfied that no planning permission is necessary for the venue to hold marriage or civil partnership ceremonies on the premises
• Have a copy of the plan of the premises, clearly showing the rooms/outdoor areas to be used for ceremonies and pre-marriage interviews
• Have a copy of the Public Liability insurance.
• Have a fire risk assessment
• Have the appropriate fee for this application, payable by card, cheque or BACS.

  - Cheques should be made payable to East Sussex County Council.

  - To make payment by card or BACS contact Carole Bailey, Registration Support Officer on 01273 481107.

For a simple guide to the process:

How To Become A Licensed Venue For Ceremonies Flowchart [118.1 KB] [pdf]

Please contact venuelicensing@eastsussex.gov.uk to request this guide in an alternative format.

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