Marriage Licenses
In order to apply for a license a couple must apply together and in person. There are three circumstances in the law that allow for only one person to appear and fill out a marriage intention:
- If either party is in the military, one party to the marriage may file intentions, providing one is a Massachusetts resident.
- If either party cannot appear because of an illness that is confirmed in writing by a physician, the intention may be taken by one party to the marriage.
- If either party is incarcerated in a county or state house of correction, either party may file.
A marriage license, once obtained, is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed and may be used in any city or town within the State of Massachusetts.
There is a three-day waiting period from the date of application to the date the license may be issued. You may, however, apply to a judge of a probate or district court to have the license issued without delay after filing your intentions with the Town Clerk.
If either party has been divorced within the past Twenty Four months we ask that you bring in an original divorce decree from the courts.
Massachusetts no longer requires premarital medical certificates.
The Fee for a Marriage License in the Town of Saugus is $30.00, which includes one complimentary Certified Copy.
The Secretary of State’s Office may allow a One Day Marriage Designation for those couples who wish to have a family member or friend preside over their marriage, but are not currently a member of the clergy or a Justice of the Peace. Please feel free to contact the Secretary of State’s Office, Commissions Section at (617) 727-2836 or contact them online for further information on a special commission.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding applying for a Marriage License, please feel free to call the Town Clerk’s Office.