What do you need for a civil ceremony?
A civil ceremony needs valid notice from both of you, a location that is either a register office or approved for civil marriage, the registration service's registrars in attendance, two witnesses, and the correct signing of the marriage document at the end. Nothing religious can feature in the ceremony content.
Before the ceremony
Both of you must have given notice at your own register office and completed the statutory waiting period. Notice records the ceremony venue and date, so changing either afterwards can mean giving notice again.
On the day
You need two witnesses aged 16 or over who understand what they are witnessing, and the registrars appointed by the venue's registration district. The ceremony includes fixed legal wording that must be said by both of you, whatever else you add around it.
- Valid notice from both parties, waiting period complete
- A venue that is a register office or approved for civil marriage
- Registrars booked through the venue's local authority
- Two witnesses present throughout
- The marriage document signed by both parties, witnesses and registrar
What is not allowed
Hymns, religious readings and references to a deity are not permitted in a civil ceremony. Councils vary in how strictly this is interpreted, so check content with your registrar in advance rather than at the rehearsal.
What this means for you
- Booking a venue does not book registrars — that is a separate step with the venue's local authority.
- Content restrictions are worth checking early if you have readings in mind.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Marriages and civil partnerships in the UK
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Related guides
Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.