Md. Wedding Venue Shut Down, County Says Building Has 'Never Been Permitted'

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A popular wedding venue in Frederick County has been shut down after the county discovered one of the buildings on the property that houses bridal suites, bathrooms and fireplaces "has never been permitted, inspected or given an occupancy permit."

Shade Trees and Evergreens in Walkersville was set to host weddings and a local high school's prom last weekend, but those plans had to be altered when the county discovered the public health and safety issues associated with the lack of permits, The Frederick News-Post reports.

"County staff have been working with the business owner to identify a path forward," Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner stated in a news release.

"A temporary permit is a reasonable solution that allows brides, grooms, and their families to be accommodated while the county protects the health and safety of the public."

Under a temporary outdoor activity permit that would allow the venue to host previously scheduled events through July 31, event tents and portable sanitary facilities could be used to accommodate guests.

The business owner is responsible for applying for those permits.

Another building on site, a greenhouse pavilion, may still be used for events after a structural engineering analysis is provided and the owner "can demonstrate that the materials used are acceptable to the Fire Marshal's Office," according to a county news release.

According to Frederick County Public Schools spokesman Michael Doerrer, the Oakdale High Prom Committee was able to relocate its prom to the Holiday Inn & Conference Center last week after finding out with only a few hours' notice Friday that they wouldn't be able to hold the dance at Shade Trees and Evergreens.

It is unclear how many wedding plans were altered due to the incident.

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