A booking is required for wedding ceremonies in the City of Melbourne's parks and gardens. A permit entitles the hirer to the use of a nominated section of the garden for the day. However you will need to provide the time you will be arriving for set up. Whilst we provide a scenic venue on this special day, the City of Melbourne does not play any role in organising any aspect of your event such as celebrants or signing tables.

Do you fence a section off for the ceremony?

The Strategic Planning and Logistics Team will make a reservation for a specified area of parkland for your wedding. The Crown Land (Reserves) Act, however, does not allow for exclusive use of the gardens or for an area to be physically cordoned off from the public.

Am I allowed to erect a marquee?

Marquees are not allowed in Carlton, Fitzroy, Kings Domain, Speakers Corner (in Birrarung Marr) and Queen Victoria Gardens.

If in another park, marquees cannot be pegged to the ground and must be flat base or water/sand base. A 4.5 m radius protection zone must be adhered to around all trees within the City of Melbourne. Marquees must remain clear of this zone.

Up to four market umbrellas are allowed providing they do not need to be pegged into the ground.

Does the City of Melbourne provide tables and chairs?

No, you will need to arrange for the provision of tables and chairs. The City of Melbourne only provides the space for your wedding. The City of Melbourne does not have a preferred suppliers list.

Is there an electrical power source we can use in the parks?

There is no provision for electrical power in the parks. You will need to make alternative arrangements if you require a public address system (PA). Please note: no amplification over 72 decibels is allowed within the parks.

Can you drive the bridal car into the park?

No. Cars (including bridal vehicles) are strictly prohibited from entering or remaining in the gardens. You may wish to consider reserving car parking spaces by telephoning the Permits & Approvals Department on (03) 9658 9658 or apply for a Reserved Parking permit. Visit Parking for more information. Please note that parking spaces can not be guaranteed.

Does the cost include the use of the area for photos?

Yes. The use of the area for photographs is at no extra cost. Should you choose to use an area for photographs only, there is no need to make a booking and there is no cost associated. Of course, if that area is booked at the same time, you may have to wait or have an alternative location in mind.

What if it rains on the day?

The possibility of inclement weather needs to be taken into account when making a booking. The City of Melbourne does not provide wet weather alternatives and it is not permitted to set up marquees at late notice. As per the Terms and conditions, refunds are not issued in the case of wet weather.

Can I use confetti or rice?

No. The use of confetti in parks and gardens is prohibited as it is considered to be litter in the park. The use of rice is also prohibited as it attracts animals such as possums, the numbers of which are already unsustainable in inner city parks.

Where can wedding guests park?

Car parking in proximity to parks and gardens is limited and you may wish to advise guests to use alternative modes of transport.

What if other events are on at the same time as my wedding?

The City of Melbourne plays host to many events, whether they are in Parks and Gardens, on the city streets or within major entertainment complexes. The City of Melbourne is not responsible for advising you of any other events that may be held in and around Melbourne on your wedding day. We will of course, refuse any bookings in the area of the park or garden that coincide with your wedding. There are certain events, however, over which we have no direct control.

When are the horticultural assets like trees and flowers at their best?

Parks and Recreation will endeavour at all times to ensure that the horticultural assets are at their best. Please be aware that throughout the year, flowers need to be maintained and can be at varying stages in height and growth.

How and when do I pay?

Please note that your application will not be confirmed and approved, and no permit will be issued, until payment is received. For information on fees, please visit Event fees.

Do I need to organise any insurance?

The City of Melbourne has an open public liability insurance policy, which provides cover for claims arising from the specified event. Please make sure you have read and complied with the Terms and conditions and that you have indicated all aspects of your event or activity on the application form.

How do I make a booking?

You make a booking by lodging the Wedding Permit application form. Upon submitting the application an event coordinator from the City of Melbourne will be in contact to confirm. Should you have further queries prior to lodging an application please contact the Strategic Planning and Logistics Team on (03) 9658 8008.

Are we allowed alcohol?

You are allowed to serve alcohol but not sell alcohol. If you are serving alcohol, food must also be served. You will need to ensure all rubbish and containers are cleaned up before you leave.

How do I know which area I have booked?

When making your application, you will need to specify which area of the park you wish to book. You will be taken to a map which shows the different areas.

Can we have some decoration on the rotunda or trees?

No adhesive materials are permitted to be used (ie, tack or tape). Ribbons may be tied on the rotunda but not on the trees.