Venues for civil marriage and civil partnership

Local authorities are empowered under legislation to grant approval for premises to be used as venues for civil marriage ceremonies and civil partnership registrations.

Guidance on the approval of premises

The Registrar General has issued guidance on the approval of premises, for the assistance both of local authorities and those considering making an application.

Please note that this is only general guidance: any specific request, application or enquiry should be directed to the relevant local authority who can advise on local procedures.

In the case of civil partnership registrations, applications for approval may also be made subject to the consent of the relevant governing body of the faith concerned, by the proprietors or trustees of religious premises. This is a new provision from December 2011, and a short further information document is now available to assist with any questions about this subject.