Planning an outdoor wedding is a beautiful idea, as it allows you to enjoy nature, fresh air, and breathtaking views with your family and friends. However, many people forget that outdoor weddings need to comply with specific regulations, especially when it comes to permits. 

Securing necessary permits ensures your wedding runs smoothly without any interruptions or fines. In this post, we’ll discuss six permits you need for your outdoor wedding.

1. Building Permit

Large tents that hold more than 200 people require a building permit and an inspection from the city’s municipality office. Before you can erect and use a large tent, you must have the structural integrity, anchoring, and fire safety measures inspected. 

Additionally, tents must comply with accessibility requirements and be labeled appropriately with emergency exits. At Sperry Tents Seacoast, we’re happy to provide you with the necessary permit you will need to have one of our tents at your event. 

2. Fire Permit

You’ll need to obtain a fire permit from the Fire Department to use barbeque grills, fire pits, or open flames for decoration. The permit ensures that fire safety measures are implemented to avoid accidents or emergencies.

3. Alcohol Permit

If you plan to serve alcohol at your outdoor wedding, you’ll need to get a permit from the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations. 

The permit authorizes you to sell or distribute alcoholic beverages for the wedding. You’ll need to pay a fee, submit an application, and provide the venue details. The permit application process can take up to two weeks, so make sure to apply early.

4. Noise Permit

If you plan to play music or have live entertainment, you’ll need to get a noise permit from your local town or city hall. The noise permit will outline what time your outdoor wedding must end and the acceptable decibel level for the entertainment.

5. Health Permit

The Department of Health and Human Services requires a health permit for outdoor weddings to ensure that food vendors provide safe and healthy food to guests. 

The permit will verify that food vendors meet the state’s regulatory requirements for food preparation, storage, and serving. You must submit an application, pay a fee, and have a health inspection before getting the permit.

6. Business License/Vendor Permit

Before hiring vendors for your outdoor wedding, you’ll need to check with your local municipality to determine if they require a business license or vendor permit. 

These permits allow vendors to conduct business within the town limits and also help the town and local authorities track taxes and vendor activities.

Planning an outdoor wedding is a great way to celebrate your big day and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, outdoor weddings have different regulations requiring permits to ensure guests are safe and comfortable. Therefore, research and obtain all the required permits before planning your outdoor wedding. 

It’s always best to plan early and verify with your local city and town offices that you have fulfilled all the permit requirements and are good to go. Now that you know about the six permits needed for an outdoor wedding in New England, start preparing for your special day.

And for help with New England event rentals, give us a call at Sperry Tents Seacoast!