Planning a San Francisco City Hall wedding? Whether you are dreaming of a quiet elopement or a grand celebration on the Mayor’s Balcony, this iconic Beaux-Arts landmark is one of the most elegant places to say “I do” in California.
Booking Your San Francisco City Hall Wedding
To get married here, you need two separate appointments through the County Clerk:
- Marriage License Appointment: Costing $127, this must happen before your ceremony.
- Ceremony Reservation: You have three main options depending on your guest count and vision.
Photographer’s Tip: For civil ceremonies, appointments now open at 9:00 AM PST exactly 90 days out. Popular dates like Fridays or “lucky numbers” (e.g., 6/6/26) book up within minutes!
Want a more private experience? Reserve the Fourth Floor Galleries or the Mayor’s Balcony for an hour-long ceremony. These locations give you space to breathe and time to savor the moment with your guests. Reservations open a year in advance and are especially popular for weekday weddings.
Best Times for Effortless Wedding Photos
The building is a public space, which means it can get crowded. To get those “empty hall” shots you see on Pinterest, timing is everything.
Mid-Week Magic: Tuesday and Wednesday are the quietest days. Fridays are notoriously chaotic with multiple ceremonies happening simultaneously.
The Early Bird Advantage: Aim for a 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM ceremony. The light is soft, and the tourist crowds haven’t arrived yet.
Top Photography Locations (Beyond the Grand Staircase)
While the Grand Staircase is a must, a great photographer knows where to find the “hidden” light:
- 4th Floor North Gallery: Known for the best natural light and incredible symmetry for architectural portraits.
- The Mayor’s Balcony: Offers a dramatic, high-angle view of the Rotunda—perfect for showing off the scale of the dome.
- 3rd Floor Windows: The intricate ironwork creates stunning silhouettes during the afternoon.
After your ceremony, we can step outside for some variety. Hayes Valley is right around the corner, think charming streets, boutique storefronts, and maybe a pit stop at Ritual Coffee or Smitten Ice Cream if you’re into it. Alternately, we can also head out to somewhere on the waterfront, like Marshall’s Beach or Sutro Baths for amazing views of the ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the golden hour sunset (if we time it right!).
The Best Wedding Photos Aren’t Always Posed
Yes, we’ll get the timeless portraits. But some of the best SF City Hall photos come from the unscripted moments, the glance between you two before the ceremony, the deep breath right after you say your vows, the little things no one else notices. That’s the good stuff. That’s what I look for.
Pro Logistics: Parking & Security
Security: Everyone goes through metal detectors. Remind your guests to keep bags light so you don’t lose precious photo time in line.
Check-In Location: As of late 2024, all couples must check in at Room 160 (past the staircase to the right) as early as 15 minutes before their slot.
Parking: The Civic Center Garage (355 McAllister) is the most reliable option.
Security: Everyone goes through metal detectors. Remind your guests to keep bags light so you don’t lose precious photo time in line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we bring our own officiant? Yes, for 1-hour private rentals, you must provide your own. For the $111 civil ceremony, a Deputy Marriage Commissioner is provided.
What happens if it’s a rainy day? That is the beauty of City Hall! It is one of the few places in San Francisco where the “Plan B” is just as stunning as “Plan A.”
Are we limited to just 6 guests? For a Civil Ceremony, the limit is 6 guests, and this count includes your photographer and children. If you have a larger group, the 1-hour rental is a better fit.
Ready to Capture Your City Hall Story?
You deserve more than just “standard” photos; you deserve a gallery that feels like you. Whether we are dodging crowds on the staircase or heading for ice cream for a post-ceremony celebration, I am here to make the process effortless.
