How to Apply for a Marriage Licence

1. Complete the Marriage Licence Application and have it signed by both parties.
2. Bring the completed application to the Municipal Office (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday).  One or both applicants must be present. Appointments are strongly recommended.
3. Provide the following 2 pieces of Identification for both parties:
• original proof of identity (a birth certificate or valid passport); and
• any government issued photo identification.
• Photocopies will not be accepted. Documents in a language other than English or French must be translated by a certified translator.
4. Pay the licence fee of $140 by debit/cash/cheque payable to the Municipality of Meaford.

Other information

• If either party has a PO box number as a mailing address, you must provide the 911 address.
• If either party lives on a Canadian Armed Forces Base, provide both room and barrack numbers.
• The application requires the location of the marriage ceremony, including the municipality and county.
• For applicants divorced in Canada, include an original or court-certified copy of the Final Decree, Final Judgment or Certificate of Divorce with the application. This certificate will have a seal and original signature. No photocopies will be accepted.
• If you have a previous divorce granted outside of Canada, the Ministry of Government Services requires specific documentation before a marriage licence can be issued. The application must be submitted at least four weeks before to the date of the ceremony.
• People under the age of 16 may not marry. People who are 17 or 18 years old need consent from both parents or guardians. Please request Form 6 from our office.
• If either party is a widow/widower, they are not required to produce a death certificate to get a marriage license.
• A marriage licence is only valid for 90 days, so you must apply for your marriage licence within 3 months of the day you plan to get married.

Please note, at this time evening/weekend civil ceremonies are not available and appointments are limited for daytime civil ceremonies.

There are many options available for your civil ceremony. We can provide a basic standard service, or include your own vows, poems, quotes or songs. Sample ceremonies will be provided.

Your civil wedding ceremony can be performed at Meaford Hall, or a municipal park or other facility. Services are available both during or after regular business hours.

Cost

Fees for a civil marriage service during the daytime (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) are $250, including room rental, based on availability. If you would like the municipality to provide you with the two regarding witnesses, the fee is $50.00 per witness.