Approved venues

Evidence to support your application

You will need to ensure your premises meet the requirements to apply for a grant of approval. You will be able to upload copies of any documents supporting your application as part of the application process.

Safety, planning and insurance

  • the premises must satisfy the local authority on fire precautions and health and safety provisions
  • we will deem the applicant to be the responsible person (or acting on their behalf) under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 to ensure that a fire risk assessment has been carried out on the premises
  • applicants are advised to consult with their local planning authority (district council) to check whether use as a venue for civil ceremonies would constitute development or change of use. We reserve the right to contact the planning authority where any doubt occurs
  • the building or structure to be licensed must have public liability (third party) insurance cover during the three years of the licence

Evidence you will need to provide

  • a room plan with the areas clearly marked out. This includes outside spaces within the boundary of your property. These will be included at no extra charge
  • employer liability insurance certificate
  • public liability insurance certificate
  • planning permission. Contact your local District Council for further information. Where planning is not required written confirmation to be supplied at application

Risk assessment

  • fire risk assessment and emergency evacuation plan
  • ongoing fire logbook checks
  • fire alarm service and testing records
  • fire extinguisher service and inspection records
  • fire safety signage

Responsible persons

  • name and contact telephone number of responsible person, who will be responsible for overseeing health and safety on day of celebration

The proposed room

  • a permanent and immovable structure
  • seemly, dignified, and free from anything that may compromise the occasion’s solemnity
  • available for frequent use
  • not used or affiliated with any religion
  • accessible and provide disabled access and facilities
  • have a quiet and private area for the preliminaries of the celebration