Marriage Licences and Ceremonies

To get married in Ontario, you first need to apply for a marriage licence. A licence cannot be issued after the wedding ceremony has already happened. These licences are valid for ceremonies held anywhere in Ontario and remain valid for 90 days from the date it was issued. 

How to apply for a marriage licence? 

1. Review the requirements for getting married in Ontario. 
2. Submit your application. 
3. Our staff will contact you to arrange an appointment and provide a list of documentation required for the marriage license. Appointments are prioritized based on the date of the marriage ceremony. 

There is a marriage licence fee of $177.55 ($88.80 for eligible residents on the Municipal Fee Assistance Program), and you can pay using cash, a money order, Interac, Visa, Mastercard or American Express.  

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out via email to vitalstatistics@cityofkingston.ca. 

Civil marriage ceremonies 

It is important to ensure that your marriage is performed properly and legally. Access a list of who can perform a marriage in Ontario, or call 1-800-461-2156. 

To book a civil marriage ceremony, please schedule it at least 14 days in advance. Ceremonies cannot be booked more than 90 days in advance and will not appear on the booking system before that time. If you do not see any dates available, this means all bookable ceremonies are sold out. After booking, one of our officiants will contact you for a required pre-ceremony consultation.  

You can choose from three different vows: short and sweet, modern or traditional.

The ceremony fee is $320. We accept cash, money order, Interac, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express payments. A price increase for ceremonies is expected in 2025.

What you need to get married 

 For the ceremony, you will need: 

• A valid Ontario marriage license 
• Two witnesses, one for each person getting married, both need to be at least 18 years old. We can provide witnesses for a $25 fee per witness if needed.  
• Two pieces of government-issued identification for each person. 

If one of you does not speak English, you must arrange and pay for an interpreter. They should complete an interpreter declaration form. However, we offer free American Sign Language interpretation if requested in advance. 

What your ceremony will look like 

Ceremonies happen in Memorial Hall at City Hall and last a maximum of 15 minutes, with an extra 15 minutes for photos and paperwork.  

• Up to 20 people, including the officiant, couple and witnesses, can attend.
• Only service animals are allowed
• Activities like throwing rice, confetti, using candles or playing music are not allowed. 
• You can have minimal decorations, but don't attach them to walls or furniture. Remove them within 15 minutes of the ceremony's end. Live flowers and plants are not permitted in City Hall.
• No religious elements like prayers or readings are allowed
• Choose from three different vows when making your booking
• Photographs and videos are allowed but it is your responsibility
• Alcohol is not allowed

Ceremonies follow the Marriage Act. An officiant may refuse to conduct a ceremony if they believe either person is ineligible for a civil marriage ceremony. 

Cancellations 

If you need to cancel a ceremony, a minimum of 48 hours notice is required to receive a refund. There is a $50 administrative fee for cancellations. Unfortunately, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made with less than 48 hours notice.