Getting married at San Francisco City Hall is simple when you know the steps. Whether you’re planning a quick, intimate elopement or a private ceremony with family and friends, we’ll help you navigate the process with ease.
1. Get Your Marriage License
Before your wedding, you must obtain a marriage license from the San Francisco County Clerk’s Office. Licenses are valid for 90 days and can be obtained in person or online. Make sure to bring your license with you — your ceremony cannot legally take place without it!
2. Choose Your Ceremony Type
City Hall offers several options to fit your guest count, vision, and budget:
Civil Ceremony: Perfect for a small, intimate elopement (up to 6 guests). Quick 3–4 minute ceremony, usually in the Rotunda.
1-Hour Private Rental: More privacy, allows personal vows, additional guests, and optional music or decor (40–100 guests depending on space).
Mayor’s Balcony Ceremony – 2nd Floor
North Gallery Ceremony – 4th Floor
2-Hour Weekend Ceremony Buyout: Full exclusive use of City Hall for your ceremony and portraits, ideal for larger gatherings (up to 200 guests).
Full-Day Evening Buyout: Ceremony and reception with exclusive access, multiple floors, and plenty of personalization options.
3. Book Your Date & Time
Once your license is ready and you’ve chosen your ceremony type, you can book your
preferred time slot at City Hall. Weekday elopements and civil ceremonies are the most
common, but private rentals and buyouts allow for more flexibility and guest capacity.
| Type of Ceremony | Max Guests | Availability | Cost | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Ceremony | 6 | Mon – Fri, 9:00am – 3:30 pm | $111 | Quick 3–4 minute ceremony in the Rotunda; small and intimate—the quintessential City Hall experience. Perfect for couples seeking a simple, elegant elopement. |
| 1-Hour Private Rental | 40–100 | Mon – Fri, 9AM-4PM | $1,200 | Choose from the 4th Floor North Gallery or Mayor’s Balcony; enjoy more privacy, personalized vows, additional guests, and optional music or floral decor. |
| 2-Hour Weekend Ceremony Buyout | 200 | Saturdays, 9 am or 12 pm | $6,000 | Exclusive use of City Hall for your ceremony and portraits; ideal for larger groups and dramatic, unforgettable photos. |
| Full Day Evening Ceremony & Reception | 200 | Weekdays (excluding Tues) + Weekends | $12,000+ | Host a full evening buyout with ceremony, reception, and exclusive access to multiple floors. Requires additional planning and vendors but offers the ultimate private City Hall experience. |
