Tying the knot: reforming weddings law in England and Wales

Closes 24 Sep 2026

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Chapter 5: Specific Locations for Weddings

18. Do you agree that wedding venues should be able to apply for pre-authorisation, should they choose to?

Please explain your reasoning.

19. Do you agree that venue pre-authorisation should be subject to a fixed period and to renewal requirements and revocation where the conditions of approval are no longer being met?

Please explain your reasoning.

If you answered “Yes”, what should the fixed period be?

Please explain your reasoning.

20. Are there other safeguards required to (1) protect against forced, predatory, or sham marriages and (2) ensure the safety of ceremonies conducted in private homes?

Please explain your reasoning.

21. Do you agree that weddings should be able to take place in territorial seas and inland waters, subject to the assurance that safety and dignity are maintained?

Please explain your reasoning.

22. Do you agree that weddings should be permitted in international waters on UK-registered cruise ships with a port of choice in England and Wales, provided they abide with the civil preliminaries process?

Please explain your reasoning.