There is no requirement for a government-issued licence, but a written notice must be posted at the place of the wedding for 20 days beforehand, and the officiant verifies the eligibility of the intended spouses.

How long before wedding should banns be read?

Banns must be read on three Sundays before the ceremony. In England, in some cases, the vicar may advise that you need to apply to the Church of England for a licence instead of using the banns procedure.

Are wedding banns a legal requirement?

Marriage banns are the announcement of a couple's intention to marry, made in church on at least three Sundays in the three months preceding a wedding. ... “As well as being a legal requirement, your banns readings are special public occasions when people in church hear of your intention to marry.