Marriage - Who is Allowed to Perform Marriages in Ontario
If you are getting married in Ontario, you may have a religious marriage or a civil marriage.
Religious Marriage
A religious marriage is performed by a religious official of a recognized religious organization who has received authorization from the Office of the Registrar General to perform marriages in Ontario under the Marriage Act. The marriage can be solemnized under the authority of a marriage licence or the publication of banns, depending on the religious body.
Note: Banns shall not be published where either parties to the intended marriage had a previous marriage which has been dissolved or annulled.
Civil Marriage
An Ontario judge, justice of the peace or municipal clerk may perform a marriage under the authority of a marriage licence. Each municipality will set its own fees and now has the option to offer civil marriage services. Contact your municipal office for more information.
