Civil Marriage Ceremonies
The City of Greater Sudbury is now offering civil wedding ceremonies at Tom Davies Square.
Civil ceremonies are simple, dignified and non-denominational. They allow for flexibility to create a truly personalized experience. Trained staff designated by the City Clerk act as officiants to solemnize the marriage. Ceremonies last approximately 20 minutes.
Ceremonies, available in both official languages, are conducted at City Hall, between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Fridays by appointment only. Two weeks' notice is preferred.
Two witnesses are required and must be present at the ceremony. Witnesses are available through the Office of the City Clerk for a fee. Although there is no minimum age requirement for a witness, it is suggested that they should be at least 14 years of age and should be able to understand and appreciate what is taking place and be able to give evidence of such at a later date, if required.
It is the responsibility of the applicants to provide an interpreter if they do not speak English or French and/or require language assistance. The interpreter may not be one of the witnesses. The interpreter will be required to sign a form confirming that he/she has interpreted the wedding.
If there are reasonable grounds to believe a person lacks the capacity to marry, by reason of being mentally ill or mentally defective, a letter shall be required from a physician, parent or guardian as to the mental competency of the party.
Pre-Wedding Consultation
Our staff will meet with you at our office, at a convenient time prior to your wedding to prepare you for a personalized ceremony. A pre-wedding meeting is required prior to the date of the ceremony and both applicants must attend. At the pre-wedding meeting the following documentation must be provided:
- A valid Ontario Marriage Licence (Licences may be purchased from any municipality in Ontario and are valid for three months after the date issued.)
- Current photo identification.
Licences can be purchased at the City Clerk's Office at this time. Click here for more information regarding marriage licences.
Fees
Fees for the ceremony, which includes the use of city facilities, are $282.50 (taxes included). Fees are payable at the time of the pre-wedding meeting by cash or debit.
Other
Photographs may be taken when signing the Marriage Register and following the ceremony. The service may be video and audio taped discreetly.
Confetti, rice, bubbles, candles, incense and other similar items are prohibited within Tom Davies Square.
Cancellations
A booked civil marriage appointment can be cancelled, up to and including the day of the ceremony. All cancellations are subject to a non-refundable $50 fee. Marriage licence fees are non-refundable.
Contact
To book an appointment or for other inquiries please call the Vital Statistics Office at 3-1-1 ext. 2467.