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A temporary event notice is a time-limited license that permits a person to hold an event on public premises for a short period.
If you are planning a wedding, you may be asking yourself, “Do I need a temporary event notice for a wedding?”
This article will discuss in detail whether or not you need a temporary event notice for a wedding, why you might need one, and what the process for obtaining a temporary event notice entails.
Do I Need a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding?
If you plan to have your wedding at a public venue, you must apply for a temporary event notice.
However, you will not need to apply for a Temporary Event Notice if you plan to have your wedding at your home or a private venue.
A temporary event notice gives you authority over the use of the premises for a specific time and a specific event.
It also allows you to carry out licensable activities at your event, such as selling and serving alcohol.
Why You Need a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding
You might need a temporary event notice for a wedding for many reasons. Some might be more obvious than others, but all are important to consider.
Here are just a few reasons:
- To be able to use amplified music during the wedding ceremony or reception.
- To be able to serve alcohol to your guests during the wedding reception.
- To be able to decorate the venue with balloons, banners, and other decorations temporarily, only for the day of your wedding.
- To be able to use special effects such as confetti cannons and smoke machines during the wedding reception.
- To be able to have your wedding ceremony or reception at a public venue, such as a park or beach.
- To be able to use a marquee or other temporary structure at your wedding reception.
When to Apply for a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding
You should make an application for a temporary event notice at least ten working days before your wedding.
However, applying as early as possible would be best, as this will give the local authority time to process your application and carry out any necessary checks.
This will also give you peace of mind that everything is in order for your big day.
How to Apply for a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding
The process of applying for a temporary event notice is commonly referred to as serving a temporary event notice.
This process is always straightforward, but sometimes it can be a bit challenging.
Here are the steps you need to follow to apply for a Temporary event notice for a wedding successfully:
Step 1
The first step is to fill out the application.
You can find the application online or at your local authority. You must make your application at least ten working days before the event is due.
It will help if you note that the ten working days do not include the day the council receives your application and the day of the event.
Step 2
After filling out the application, you will need to pay a fee of 21 pounds (£21).
You also need to note that this amount is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved.
Step 3
The next step is to submit your application. You can submit your application online, by post, or in person.
Ensure you keep a copy of your application for your records.
Step 4
After you have submitted your application, you will need to wait to hear back from the council.
The council will either approve or reject your application.
If your application is approved, you will be given a temporary event notice for your wedding.
However, if your application is rejected, you can appeal to the magistrates’ court within 21 days.
Step 5
Once you have received your temporary event notice, you need to send a copy of it to the police and environmental health at least ten days before your event is due.
However, if you applied online, the police and environmental health will be notified by the council directly.
Rejection of a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding
Rejection of the temporary event notice by the police and the environmental health officers after receiving it forces the council to refuse the notice.
The police and the environmental health officers can only reject the notice within three working days after the submission of the notice if:
- The wedding could cause severe public disorder, serious crime, or serious nuisance
- There would be an unacceptable risk to public safety during the wedding ceremony and reception
- The wedding could risk the children attending being harmed
Restrictions When Serving a Temporary Event Notice for a Wedding
Numerous restrictions are placed on those who serve a temporary event notice for a wedding.
Here are some of the more common restrictions:
- One must be 18 years or older to serve a temporary event notice.
- The wedding for which the temporary event notice is being served must not have more than 500 people in attendance, the staff included.
- The wedding must last no longer than 168 hours (seven days).
- Only an individual can serve a temporary event notice for a wedding, meaning businesses or organizations cannot do so.
- Each event held at the same wedding premises should have its unique temporary event notice.
- Events that are separate and consequent should have an interval of at least 24 hours between them.
Number of Temporary Event Notice You Can Apply for in a Year
The maximum number of Temporary Event Notices that anyone aged 18 years and above can apply for in one year is 5.
However, Personal License holders can apply for a maximum of 50 in one year.
Final Thoughts
A Temporary Event Notice is an essential document to have for your wedding. It ensures that your wedding is organized correctly and all necessary arrangements have been made.
Without a Temporary Event Notice, your wedding could be in danger of not being able to go ahead as planned.
So, in the future, if you are planning a wedding, be sure to apply for a temporary event notice well in advance.
