Marriage Licences and Civil Ceremonies
Planning your wedding is an exciting journey, and the Municipality of Grey Highlands is here to make the process as seamless as possible. We’re proud to participate in the Ontario Marriage Licensing Modernization Project, which simplifies the marriage licence application process. As of May 6, all applications must be submitted through the Ontario Marriage Licence Application Portal, as email submissions are no longer permitted. Couples are encouraged to visit Ontario.ca/GettingMarried to learn about the necessary documents, officiants, and other requirements for making their marriage official.
Looking for a meaningful and stress-free ceremony? Consider a civil marriage ceremony with us. We provide officiants, a venue, and tailored ceremonies to make your special day truly memorable.
Apply For A Marriage License
Marriage licence application forms can also be submitted in person by at least one of the individuals getting married. The application form must be signed by both parties and two pieces of government issued identification for each party are required along with copies of any divorce orders if applicable.
Marriage licences are submitted and issued at the Grey Highlands Municipal Office.
What do I need to bring? |
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Provide 2 pieces of government-issued identification for each person getting married. One piece of identification for each person getting married must include their photo. Examples of government-issued identification include:
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| Fees |
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Marriage Licence Only - $150 (no tax) Civil Marriage Ceremony - $339.00 (tax included) (Officiant service and pre-consultation only) Bundle - licence and ceremony - $439.00 (tax included)
* Fees subject to change, please see the Fees and Charges By-law for current fees. |
| Officiant Services |
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The Municipality of Grey Highlands now offers Civil Marriage Ceremonies. Ceremonies are held in Council Chambers at 206 Toronto Street South Markdale on the last Friday of each month and are performed by the Clerk or designate. Ceremonies must be pre-arranged with staff. Alternate times and locations may be available upon request and at the availability of the Officiant. Application for Civil Marriage Services - Please complete the form and return only page 2 along with the $60 deposit to book a civil marriage ceremony. Sample ceremony options are included for your reference. Please be prepared with your chosen options on the date of your pre-consultation. All ceremonies require a pre-wedding consultation prior to the ceremony, usually arranged approximately 2-4 weeks prior to the wedding date. For consultations, couples must come prepared with the following:
* Please note that any Civil Marriage Ceremony performed by Marriage Officiants will be a non-denominational and dignified ceremony, which adheres to the requirements of the Marriage Act for the Province of Ontario. The Municipality of Grey Highlands has appointed the Clerk and/or designates to solemnize civil marriages in the Province of Ontario. The base fee for a civil marriage ceremony is $300.00 which includes pre-consultation meeting and the ceremony. Marriage licences obtained by the Municipality of Grey Highlands are $150.00. Bundle your licence and ceremony together and save $50.00. For more information or additional options related to ceremonies, please view the information document or contact the Clerk's Office. |
| Second Marriages |
| If you are divorced or widowed and planning to apply for a marriage licence, be sure to consult the Government of Ontario guidelines to ensure you have all the required documentation. |
| Applicants Under the Age of 18 |
| In order to get a marriage licence in Ontario, you must be at least 16 years of age. Review the Government of Ontario age regulations to determine what you need to get a marriage license under the age of 18. |
After the Wedding
Marriage marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and there are a few important steps to take after your special day to ensure everything is in order. From legal details to personal updates, taking care of these tasks will help you start your married life smoothly. Explore what comes next and make the transition as seamless as possible.
| Obtaining your Marriage Certificate |
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After the wedding, your officiant will supply you with a record of solemnization and will submit your completed and signed Marriage License to Service Ontario on your behalf so the marriage can be registered. You can order a marriage certificate about 6-8 weeks after the wedding.
To order a marriage certificate for a marriage that was registered in Ontario, you can order online at: Online Certificate Application (gov.on.ca).
For more information, please see the Government of Ontario website: How to get a copy of an Ontario marriage certificate online | Ontario.ca |
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Assuming your Spouse's Last Name |
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You can assume your spouse’s last name after marriage on government documents such as:
There is no cost to assume your spouse’s last name on the above documents. When you assume a spouse’s last name after marriage, it does not change the name on your Ontario birth registration (and birth certificate). You should change all your identification documents to reflect the new last name. To change your last name on these documents, visit a ServiceOntario centre with your:
When updating your last name on documents issued by other organizations, contact each organization that you have an account with and ask what they require to make the change. Most organizations will ask you to show a copy of your marriage certificate. |
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