What is the procedure to start a new Lodge?

Forming a new lodge begins when a group of Master Masons—at least seven under general usage and English Constitutions, though Frederick Dalcho argued for three in an early variant—petitions the Grand Master for authority to assemble 13. The petition sets forth their reasons for organizing, the proposed meeting place, and the brethren nominated to serve as the first Master and Wardens 13. To ensure the new body will not harm the fraternity, the petition must be recommended by neighboring or adjacent lodges 123.

Upon approving the petition, the Grand Master issues a temporary authority known as a dispensation 123. This dispensation empowers the nominated officers to open a lodge and perform Masonic work 1. The body operates "under dispensation" for a specified period or until the next meeting of the Grand Lodge, carefully recording all transactions for official review 12. All work performed under this temporary authority remains valid and legal, even if the dispensation is subsequently recalled 1.

If the Grand Lodge approves the records and conduct of the lodge under dispensation, it grants a permanent Warrant or Charter of Constitution 123. The Grand Master or his authorized representative then convenes a ceremony to formally constitute and consecrate the lodge and install its Master and officers 2. Once constituted under its charter, the body is established as a regular lodge possessing full inherent authority to conduct the work of Freemasonry 23.