Marriage / civil ceremonies
To hold a civil ceremony or wedding at premises in South Tyneside, the premises must be approved by South Tyneside Council.
Apply for approval of premises for civil marriage and civil partnerships
Marriage or civil ceremonies premises application form[word - 157kb]
(email your form to licensing@southtyneside.gov.uk)
Apply to change a licence to use premises for civil marriage and civil partnerships
Eligibility criteria
You must be the proprietor or a trustee of the premises to apply for permission to hold civil ceremonies or weddings.
The application must be in writing (including by electronic means) and include:
- The name and address of the applicant
- Such other information as the council requires
- A plan of the premises which clearly identifies the room or rooms in which the proceedings will occur
A fee may be payable.
Application evaluation process
Your premises will be inspected.
Your application and plan will be made available to the public for inspection and public notice of the application put in a local newspaper as part of a public consultation process.
To be granted your application must be in the correct format and your premises deemed suitable.
However, your application may still be refused if it is felt that there are too many approved premises in the area for the registrars to attend.
Conditions may be imposed to your approval.
The Registrar General may issue guidance to councils to assist them in making their decision.
Will tacit consent apply if I haven't heard back from you?
No. It is in the public interest that the council must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the council within a reasonable period, please contact us.
You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or contact the licensing team on 0191 424 7695 or email licensing@southtyneside.gov.uk
How do I appeal if my application isn't approved?
Please contact South Tyneside Council in the first instance.
You have the right to seek a review of the council's refusal to grant your application.
You must deliver your request for review to the proper officer of the council, accompanied by any requested fee.
How do I appeal against the conditions of my licence?
Please contact South Tyneside Council in the first instance.
You have the right to seek a review of the council's imposition of conditions, refusal to renew or revocation of approval.
You must deliver your request for review to the proper officer of the council, accompanied by any requested fee.
Consumer complaints
If you have a complaint, we advise that you contact the trader, preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery).
If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice.
From outside the UK, contact the UK European Consumer Centre.
Other appeals
If you object to an application for premises approval you may give notice to the council within 21 days of the notice of application appearing in the local newspaper.
