Ocean City Maryland Beach Wedding Permits
Do you need a Permit to get Married on the Ocean City MD Beach?
Do Ocean City MD Weddings Require a Permit?
Ocean City is a free public beach. You do not need a permit to get married in Ocean City but Maryland beach weddings should be outside of lifeguard hours. Summer weddings should begin after 5:30 pm in the evening. Large beach ceremonies with over 25 guests or extensive decorations should contact City Hall for possible conflicts.
Can you Rope Off the Beach for Weddings?
No, you cannot rope off the Ocean City beach for weddings. Decorations should be minimalist and non obtrusive to the public. Sunset and early morning ceremonies are best for privacy. The quietest beaches for weddings in Ocean City are north of 15th st.
Are Dogs allowed at Ocean City Weddings?
Dogs may attend Ocean City beach weddings between October 1st and May 1st if they are on a secured leash. Dogs are not permitted on OCMD beach in May, June, July, August or September. Seeing eye dogs are allowed on the beach to assist the visually impaired. The Castle on the Sand on 37th street and the Clarion on 101st st. have semi private beaches that may allow dogs at the wedding. West OC’s “Stinky Beach” is the only year round pet friendly beach for Weddings in Ocean City.
Are Wedding Receptions allowed on the Ocean City Beach?
No, traditional wedding receptions are not allowed on the Ocean City Maryland beach. Alcohol, smoking, microphones and amplifiers are not permitted. Couples should book an Ocean City Beach Wedding Package for the Ceremony and have separate dining arrangements through one of Ocean City MD’s best Wedding Venues.
Couples can have their first dance on the beach if the volume is reasonable. If you bring a wedding cake on the beach, keep it covered and bring heavy napkins & utensils that won’t blow away in the wind.
Can you have a Beach Wedding Bonfire in OC?
Yes, Wedding Bonfires are allowed on the beach in Ocean City, MD. Couples must apply for a permit. Bonfires must be at least 75 feet from the dunes and proper safety and cleanup is the responsibility of the wedding party. Plan on an extra hour of Ocean City Wedding Photography to get amazing pictures of your beach wedding bonfire!
Who can Perform an Ocean City MD Wedding?
Any Wedding Minister with a Maryland Certificate of Ordination may perform a legal wedding in Ocean City. Ministers must be recognized by the state of Maryland for the wedding to be valid in the couple’s home state. Online ordinations should be issued by Ministries that reside in the same state (Maryland) in which the wedding occurs.
Officiants are required to file the Ocean City Marriage License with the Worcester County Clerk in Snow Hill Maryland after the wedding is complete. Always make sure your Ocean City Wedding Officiant is properly certified so there are no unexpected surprises down the road.
