San Francisco City Hall is one of the most iconic and breathtaking wedding venues in the Bay Area. With its grand Beaux-Arts architecture, sweeping marble staircases, and stunning natural light, it offers a timeless and elegant setting for your special day. Whether you’re planning an intimate civil ceremony or a grand wedding celebration, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting married at San Francisco City Hall.


Why Choose San Francisco City Hall for Your Wedding?

  • Stunning Architecture – The grand staircase, rotunda, and balcony provide picture-perfect backdrops.
  • Affordability – Compared to traditional wedding venues, City Hall offers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing elegance.
  • Convenience – The streamlined marriage license and ceremony process makes planning stress-free.
  • City Location – City Hall is located towards the center of San Francisco, providing you with

Steps to Getting Married at San Francisco City Hall

1. Book Your Marriage License Appointment

Before your wedding ceremony, you must obtain a marriage license. Here’s how:

  • Schedule an appointment online through the San Francisco County Clerk’s website.
  • Both partners must be present and provide valid identification.
  • The fee for a marriage license is approximately.
  • The license is valid for 90 days.


2. Choose Your Ceremony Type

San Francisco City Hall offers three main wedding options:

  • Civil Ceremony– A simple, 5-minute ceremony conducted by a deputy marriage commissioner in a designated area (typically the rotunda at the top of the Grand Staircase).
  • One-Hour Private Ceremony– Exclusive use of a location such as the Mayor’s Balcony or the Fourth Floor Gallery.
  • Two-Hour Saturday Ceremonies – Option to get married on the
  • Evening and Weekend Weddings – Full venue rental for a grand wedding event.


3. Reserve Your Ceremony Time

  • Civil ceremonies take place Monday–Friday from 9 AM to 3:30 PM.
  • Reservations can be made online up to 90 days in advance.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in at Room 168.


4. Hire a Wedding Photographer

San Francisco City Hall’s beauty deserves professional photography. Hiring an experienced San Francisco wedding photographer ensures your memories are captured perfectly. Popular photo locations include:

  • The Grand Staircase
  • The Rotunda
  • The Fourth Floor Gallery
  • The Mayor’s Balcony

Pro tip: Hire a photographer that can shoot both digital and film for timeless and artistic imagery.


5. Plan Your Wedding Attire

City Hall weddings range from casual to black-tie. Consider:

  • Classic, elegant attire that complements the venue’s historic beauty.
  • A bouquet and boutonniere for added elegance in photos.


6. Invite Guests or Keep It Intimate

Civil ceremonies allow a limited number of guests (usually six). For larger groups, consider reserving a private space.


7. Celebrate After Your Ceremony

San Francisco offers incredible locations for a post-ceremony celebration:

  • Iconic SF PhotosI always encourage couples to consider taking a few more photos around SF. There are so many unique and beautiful locations that range from urban to greenery to beach. We can make a date out of walking around your favorite neighborhood and ending the day with Golden Gate Bridge views.
  • Restaurant Reception – SF has an amazing food scene and there is no better way to celebrate your marriage than with a meal with your loved ones! From a restaurant buyout to a private dining room reservation, there are endless options around the city.

Pro Tips for a Seamless City Hall Wedding

  • Book Early – Popular dates fill up fast, especially Fridays.
  • Avoid Peak Hours – Morning ceremonies have better lighting and fewer crowds. City Hall can get really crowded (especially for high-demand areas such as the Grand Staircase). If you are able to, consider Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday for your ceremony, as these dates are much less crowded than Friday and Monday.
  • Bring Witnesses – You need at least one witness (your photographer can sign if needed).
  • Know the Rules – No confetti, rice, or open flames are allowed inside City Hall.
  • Park at the Civic Center Garage – This underground garage is the safest option for your vehicle and belongings (although I still recommend carrying in anything visible with you into City Hall). Find the Civic Center Garage at 355 McAllister Street San Francisco, CA.


Capture Your City Hall Wedding with a Professional Photographer

As a San Francisco wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the elegance and emotion of City Hall weddings. I know City Hall like the back of my hand, and can help you plan the perfect day.


Contact me today to book your wedding photography and make your City Hall wedding truly unforgettable!

HI! I'M ANNALEE.

I'm a wedding photographer focused on authentic storytelling.

Based in San Francisco, California, I will travel anywhere and everywhere to capture your story. Documenting your love on film and digital.

San Francisco City Hall Wedding Photographer, SF , San Francisco Wedding Photographer, Bay Area Brides, Wedding Photographer