If you’re considering getting married at San Francisco City Hall or just curious about the process, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together answers to some common questions couples have to help make your decision easier.
San Francisco is an amazing spot for a simple and memorable wedding, and City Hall is a great choice. The building’s stunning architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony, without the hassle of a big event.
Eloping at City Hall is straightforward and stress-free. You don’t need to book an expensive venue or manage a lengthy guest list—just you, your partner, and the officiant. Here’s what you need to know:
1. How far in advance should I book my wedding at SF City Hall?
I’ve heard it can be difficult to get an appointment. Is it true?
There are three different types of ceremonies you can book at SF City Hall:
- Civil Ceremony: This is the most popular option. To get your preferred date and time, it’s best to book as early as possible—up to 90 days in advance. SF City Hall is open Monday through Friday, and Thursdays and Fridays can be quite busy. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider planning your wedding for Monday through Wednesday. The cost is $108, and up to 6 guests are allowed.
- 1-Hour Wedding: Costs $1,000 and includes private use of either the Mayor’s Balcony or the 4th Floor Gallery for up to one hour. Available Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. You’ll need to arrange your own officiant for this option. You can book either of these locations up to 1 year in advance.
- 2-Hour Wedding: Costs $5,000 and is available on Saturdays only. This package includes use of the Grand Staircase and can accommodate up to 200 guests. The fee covers chairs, insurance, and basic building services. You can book this option up to 1 year in advance.
2. What’s the process like?
You need to make two appointments:
- Marriage License Appointment: You can schedule this up to 90 days in advance. The fee is currently $124.
- Civil Ceremony Appointment: Also bookable up to 90 days ahead, with ceremonies available every half hour starting from 9:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. The fee is $108.
It’s a good idea to book these appointments as soon as possible to secure the best time and date for you. Remember, the marriage license appointment must be completed before your ceremony.
You may book online here: SF City Hall Appointments
3. What are the best days to get married at City Hall?
Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday are generally less crowded days. If you want a quieter environment, try to book your ceremony for either 9 a.m. (the earliest time) or after 2:00 p.m. The 3:30 p.m. slot is also a good choice, as most visitors will have left by then. The busiest hours are between 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., so if you want to avoid the crowds, plan around these times.
4. Can we just take photos there?
SF City Hall is a public building, so you can take photos during regular business hours. However, some areas might be restricted due to other events or ceremonies. It’s a good idea to discuss it with me ahead of time to make sure we capture all the best spots and moments.
5. What’s the ceremony like?
A civil marriage ceremony at SF City Hall is brief, typically lasting about 5 minutes. It usually takes place in the Rotunda, at the top of the grand staircase. Before the ceremony, you’ll check in at Room 168, where your witness will sign the marriage license, and you’ll meet the officiant. The ceremony includes vows, ring exchanges, and a declaration as a married couple.
6. Can we bring our own officiant?
Yes, you can bring your own officiant or have a friend or family member apply to be a Deputy Marriage Commissioner for a day. The fee for this is $177, which allows for a more personalized ceremony while meeting City Hall’s requirements.
7. How long does it take to get a marriage license?
To get a marriage license, you need to schedule an appointment. Once you arrive at City Hall, go to Room 160 to fill out the form, and then check in at Room 168. The process takes about 30-40 minutes, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to allow time for parking and security checks. Make sure to bring valid identification and any necessary documents.
8. We’re traveling from out of state. Does the process change for us?
No, the process is the same. You’ll need to make two appointments: one to pick up your marriage license and another for the civil ceremony, where you’ll officially be married. You must have your marriage license before the ceremony. Some couples pick up the license a few days in advance, while others schedule both the license appointment and the ceremony on the same day. For example, you might have a marriage license appointment at 8 a.m. and a civil ceremony at 10 a.m. This timing works well for taking photos in between—just make sure you choose the 2nd package!
9. When do appointment slots become available?
Appointments for both the marriage license and civil ceremony are available up to 90 days in advance. To secure your preferred time and date, it’s best to book as early as possible.
10. When should we arrive?
Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before your ceremony time. Parking can be challenging, so consider using the Civic Center underground parking garage nearby (I’d recommend parking at either the Civic Center Plaza Garage or the Performing Arts Garage).
After passing through security, check in at Room 168 on the 1st floor. Arriving early helps ensure you’re relaxed and ready for your ceremony.
11. How many guests can we have?
For public civil ceremonies, the maximum number of guests is 6. If you have a larger group, consider booking a 1-hour wedding on the Mayor’s Balcony or the 4th Floor Gallery, which accommodates up to 100 guests.
12. Can we get married on the weekend?
Yes, you can get married at SF City Hall on Saturdays, but only in the 2-hour wedding package, which allows use of the Grand Staircase for up to 200 guests. This option is more expensive and must be reserved well in advance.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can bring your vision to life, check out my City Hall page and reach out to discuss your ideas or book your session.
I’m excited to capture your special moments and make them truly unforgettable!
