How to get married at San Francisco City Hall
One of my all-time favorite locations for engagements, elopements, and weddings is San Francisco City Hall. Opened in 1915 and located at the heart of the Civic Center, this historic building and its jaw-dropping architecture epitomizes the American Renaissance with a mesmerizing blend of Beaux-Arts and Classical Revival elements. From the grand staircase and classic marble floors to the grandiose skylights and intricate door handles, every detail within City Hall was thoughtfully considered. And given it’s beautiful design and historical significance, it’s no wonder this spot is popular amongst the recently engaged, including those from the Bay Area and across the country.
If you and your partner have decided that San Francisco City Hall is the place for you—whether you’re eloping or planning a wedding—there are a few things you’ll need to know. Here’s an easy three-step guide to planning your wedding at one of the most gorgeous courthouses in California!
3 steps to planning your wedding at San Francisco City Hall
When it comes to planning your wedding at San Francisco City Hall, there are three things you’ll need to consider in order to bring your vision to life: ceremony type, reservation and fees, and a marriage license. Luckily, it’s all relatively straightforward!
1. Determine the type of ceremony you want
Given San Francisco City Hall’s size and proximity to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), this venue is a great location for couples looking to elope, host a micro-wedding, or throw a 2,000-plus guest celebration. Depending on your budget and wedding size, SF City Hall offers three different types of wedding packages.
One-hour weddings
Starting at $1,000, the One-hour Wedding package includes exclusive use of the Mayor’s Balcony or a Fourth Floor Gallery, with ceremonies taking place from 9:00 am pst to 3:00 pm pst on Monday through Friday only. For this package option, you may invite up to 100 guests—the Mayor’s Balcony can accomodate seating for 40 guests while a Fourth Floor Gallery can seat 60.
To reserve a One-hour Wedding, you must submit your reservation request at least four weeks in advance, as they do not accomodate last minute requests. You can check their Wedding Availability Calendar to find a date you desire.
Two-hour weddings
Starting at $5,000, the Two-hour Wedding package allows you and your love to exchange your vows on the Grand Staircase of the Rotunda. These ceremonies are only available on Saturdays at 9:00 am pst and 12:00pm pst. This package includes up to 200 guests, natural wood folding chairs, insurance, and basic building services. If you have more than 200 guests, they do offer a small additional per person fee.
To reserve a Two-hour wedding, you must submit your reservation request at least 3 months in advance. I recommend visiting their Wedding Availability Calendar to find a date that works for you.
Evening and weekend weddings
For those looking to exchange their vows at the top of the grand staircase followed by a cocktail hour and reception in the North Light Court, the Evening Wedding package may be the option for you! This larger package option can accomodate up to 3,000 guests and provides you with private use of these stunning spaces until midnight.
Package pricing is determined based on guest count. For example, you can invite up to 499 guests for $10,000 and up to 3,000 guests for $30,000. See City Hall’s rental rates chart for more information on the price breakdown.
2. Make your reservation
Now that you’ve determined the type of ceremony that’s right for your wedding day, it’s time to reserve your date!
Contact City Hall Events Office
To reserve your date, you’ll need to reach out to the City Hall Events Office. As San Francisco City Hall is a popular destination for weddings and elopements, it is recommended that you have several different date options when inquiring.
If your date is open, you may place a tentative hold. If someone else has a hold on your desired wedding date, you may challenge their hold by submitting a challenge form and providing 75 percent rental deposit. It’s important to note that if your challenge is accepted, the deposit is non-refundable and cannot be moved to a different date.
Sign your contract
Once your date is approved, you’ll need to sign the contract and pay the 75 percent rental deposit (if you have not done so already). Your date is not reserved until both of these items are completed.
Provide plans and permits
In accordance with City Hall’s event requirements, prior to your wedding you’ll need to submit the following materials:
Event timeline
Floor plan
Vendor list
Proof of insurance
You will also need to provide payment for labor, equipment, and any additional fees associated with your rental. This may include security, connectivity, processing, EMT, fire permits, and insurance. To learn more about San Francisco City Hall’s event fees, visit their Fees and Expenses page.
Schedule a vendor site visit
Be sure to let your vendors know that approximately three-weeks prior to your wedding day, they will be required to participate in a vendor site visit with City Hall Event staff. These appointments take place Monday through Friday from 9:00 am pst to 4:30 pm pst.
Pay your remaining balance
About three-weeks out from your wedding day, your final balance will be determined. You must pay the remaining balance in full no less than five days prior to your wedding.
3. Apply for your marriage license
While you may be getting married at City Hall, they do not handle your marriage license or officiant. You will be responsible for acquiring both.
Marriage license
To obtain your marriage license in California, you have two options: confidential marriage license or public marriage license. A confidential marriage license will not be public record, meaning only the married couple can request copies of the marriage certificate, and a public marriage license means that anyone can request a copy.
Once you’ve determined the type of license, you may begin the application process. You and your partner will need to both visit a California county clerk’s office, though this does not need to be in the county you’re getting married in. Any county clerk’s office in California is acceptable. For this visit, be sure you both bring a valid state-issued ID and form of payment.
The license will be valid for 90-days after it’s issued. If your ceremony is not taking place within the 90-day window, it will expire and you’ll be required to apply and pay for a new license.
For more information on how to get a marriage license in California, visit the California Department of Public Health website.
Officiant
In California, there are two primary requirements for a legally recognized officiant: they must be at least 18 years old and they must be ordained by a recognized religious organization or online platform. Therefore, you can hire a professional officiant or have a loved one officiate your ceremony!
Start planning your City Hall wedding today
When it comes to getting married at SF City Hall, you’ll need to do three simple things: pick your ceremony type, make your reservation, and obtain your marriage license and officiant. This historic venue is the perfect spot for couples looking to keep their celebration simple and timeless and for those who want to throw an epic, unforgettable party!
You can get started on your wedding plans today by visiting San Francisco City Hall Events and learning more about their different packages, rates, and requirements.
