How To Get Married at San Francisco City Hall
UPDATED FEBRUARY 2025
Your Guide to Getting Married at San Francisco City Hall
San Francisco City Hall is more than just a building—it’s a stunning landmark and one of the most iconic places to get married in California. Whether you're planning a civil ceremony, a private 1-hour rental, or a weekend buyout celebration, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about making your San Francisco City Hall wedding vision come to life.
Why San Francisco City Hall is a Dream Wedding Venue
With its grand staircase, marble floors, and natural light, San Francisco City Hall offers timeless elegance and flexibility for weddings of all sizes. Located in the heart of San Francisco, it’s perfect for local couples, elopements, or destination weddings.
1. Civil Ceremony
A civil ceremony at City Hall is a popular choices for couples seeking a simple yet beautiful wedding. It’s affordable, stress-free, and still gives you the opportunity to marry in one of San Francisco’s most iconic venues.
How to Book a Civil Ceremony
1. Marriage License:
Before anything else, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk’s Office at City Hall (Room 168).
Cost: $124 (as of July 2024).
Appointments: Required—book your license appointment online.
Timing: You can apply up to 90 days before your wedding.
For More Information: click here
💡 Pro Tip: Get your marriage license a couple of days before your ceremony so that there’s one less thing to think about on your ceremony day.
2. Ceremony Appointment:
Once you’ve secured your license, book your ceremony appointment.
Cost: $108 for weekdays (as of July 2024)
Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Guests: Civil ceremonies allow up to six guests, including your photographer and witness. You can ask additional guests to witness your ceremony from a distance and they can join you afterwards.
Cost for Weekends, Holidays, Offsite: $327
See all fees here.
💡 Pro Tip: Ceremony appointments open 90 days in advance and book fast. Weekday mornings (especially Tuesdays and Thursdays) are least crowded.
3. Ceremony Location:
Most civil ceremonies take place on the Rotunda stairs.
Occasionally, another space is used depending on crowd levels.
What to Expect on the Day
Check-In: Arrive 10-15 minutes early at the County Clerk’s Office
Officiant: A City Hall judge
Duration: 5-10 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: To avoid crowds and get the best photos, book a morning slot—preferably on a weekday (Tuesdays and Thursdays are the least busiest).
2. Private 1-Hour Ceremony
If you’re dreaming of a more personalized experience, San Francisco City Hall offers private one-hour ceremonies. This option gives you exclusive use of a designated space for you and your guests.
How to Book a Private 1-Hour Ceremony
1. Choose Your Ceremony Space:
Options include:
Mayor’s Balcony: Overlooks the Rotunda and staircase
Fourth Floor Galleries: Light-filled, quiet, and scenic
2. Reserve Your Slot:
Cost: $1,000
Times: Monday–Friday during regular hours
What’s Included in the Private 1-Hour Ceremony?
Privacy: Your selected space is closed to the public during your reservation.
Guest Limit: Up to 100 guests are welcome.
Custom Ceremony: Bring your own officiant or request one through City Hall.
Read more about 1 hour ceremonies here.
💡 Pro Tip: A private ceremony allows for personal vows, uninterrupted photography, and a more relaxed pace.
3. Weekend Buyout
For couples planning a lavish celebration, a weekend buyout of San Francisco City Hall transforms this landmark into your very own private wedding venue. This option is ideal for large-scale weddings, receptions, and events.
How to Plan a Weekend Buyout
1. Contact the Events Team:
Reach out to the San Francisco City Hall Events Office for availability and details. Weekend buyouts are highly sought-after, so plan well in advance.
2. Cost:
Starting at $10,000, with additional fees depending on your event needs, number of guests, and customizations.
3. Timing:
Weekend buyouts are typically available outside of City Hall’s normal business hours, ensuring complete exclusivity.
Note: 2 Hour Wedding Ceremonies are only available on Saturdays. Read more about them here.
What’s Included in a Weekend Buyout?
Exclusive Access: You’ll have the entire building to yourself.
Customizable Event: Work with the City Hall events team to create a fully tailored experience, from catering to lighting and décor.
Capacity: Host up to 1,000 guests in the grandeur of City Hall.
Read more about Evening Weddings and Rental Fees here
💡 Pro Tip: A professional wedding planner is a must for a buyout. They’ll handle logistics, timelines, and all the moving pieces so you can enjoy every moment.
Photography Tips for Your San Francisco City Hall Wedding
San Francisco City Hall’s architecture is a photographer’s dream. From the intricate marble details to the natural light pouring in through its skylights, every angle offers something special.
Tips for Stunning Photos:
City Hall is one of the most photogenic venues in the Bay Area. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Best Time for Photos: Morning light (before 11 AM) is soft and golden
Top Photo Spots: Grand Staircase, Rotunda, Fourth Floor Galleries, exterior with the dome
Pets Welcome: Well-behaved pets are allowed!
Be Flexible: We may circle back to a location if it’s crowded—go with the flow
Biggest Tip: Stay present with each other—that’s where the magic happens
Practical Tips for Your SF City Hall Wedding Day
Parking: Use Civic Center Garage or ride-share to avoid stress
Weather: Layers are your friend—SF weather can shift quickly, even indoors
Post-Wedding: Celebrate with lunch or dinner at one of San Francisco’s amazing restaurants
Final Thoughts: Why I Love City Hall Weddings
San Francisco City Hall offers something truly magical: timeless beauty, flexibility for every type of celebration, and a central location in a vibrant city. Whether you’re eloping or hosting a grand affair, this venue creates memories you’ll treasure forever.
And if you’re looking for a photographer who knows City Hall like the back of her hand—and will cheer you on every step of the way—I’d love to be part of your day. ⭐
Looking for a San Francisco City Hall photographer? Say hello below!
