Guidelines for linked outdoor areas

The following guidance is for venues that wish to have a location agreed for holding civil ceremonies within a linked outdoor area.

• The location within a linked outdoor area will only be agreed if it falls within the boundaries of an approved venue which includes one or more rooms that have been approved for civil ceremonies. If the structure is clearly within the grounds of the venue then that is deemed as forming part of that venue.
• The location within the linked outdoor area must be seemly and dignified.
• The Approved Premise must ensure the location within the linked outdoor area meets existing health and safety requirements and fire precautions are complied with.
• If a location within the linked outdoor area is approved and is to be used for a civil ceremony the venue must always have an alternative approved room kept available so that if for any reason the ceremony has to be moved inside the alternative room can be used immediately.
• A plan of the venue which clearly shows and identifies the boundaries of the venue & specifically the location within the linked outdoor area will need to be provided to the authority before an approval can be granted.
• If the weather is inclement the ceremony will not be conducted in the outdoor location within the linked outdoor area and the alternative approved room will be used. What constitutes inclement weather will be the sole decision of the registration staff after discussion with the couple and responsible person but their decision will be final. Inclement weather can include cold and other extreme conditions as well as rain. * Please note, this will only apply to locations that are 'uncovered', an alternative approved room may be a marquee within the grounds, as long as this outdoor location within the linked outdoor area has been preagreed.
• If the weather becomes inclement during the ceremony the registration staff may decide to complete the ceremony in the alternative approved room but this will depend on factors such as what stage of proceedings have been reached.
• When it is intended for a ceremony to take place in an agreed location within the linked outdoor area consideration should also be made as to the condition of the area around the structure where the guests will be standing/seated.
• No food or drink should be consumed within the 'ceremony area' of the outdoor location during the ceremony for up to an hour before the ceremony is due to take place.