What is the procedure to start a new Lodge?

A new lodge begins with a petition to the Grand Master signed by at least seven Master Masons 13, though John Dalcho historically argued three were sufficient 1. The petition must state that the signers are or were members of a regular lodge, assign a reason such as local convenience, specify a proposed name and meeting place, and nominate the first Master and Senior and Junior Wardens 123. General usage requires this application to be recommended by the nearest regular lodge to certify that the new body will not harm the Craft 13, though specific regulations have varied: William Preston noted recommendations from three adjacent lodges, the Grand Lodge of Scotland specified the officers of the two nearest lodges, and the English Constitutions required the officers of one regular lodge 12.

If approved, the Grand Secretary issues a dispensation authorizing the petitioners to assemble, open a lodge, and confer the three degrees 12. Transactions recorded while under dispensation carry legal validity for the time being 12. This temporary authority continues until revoked or until the Grand Lodge grants a permanent warrant of constitution, typically at its next meeting 12.

Once the Grand Lodge grants a permanent warrant, the Grand Master or a designated officer convenes the brethren to perform the formal constitution, consecration, and installation ceremonies 2. The minutes recorded during the period under dispensation are reviewed and declared regular 2. The assembly publicly confirms its approbation of the nominated officers, the consecration ceremony is performed, and the Grand Master formally constitutes the body into a regular lodge before installing its Master and officers 2.