San Francisco City Hall is one of the finest examples of classical architecture in the U.S. It is a beautiful place for your wedding whether you are eloping or having an intimate civil ceremony with your friends and family. We’ve been honored to photograph more than 200 weddings at City Hall since 2008 Getting married at San Francisco City Hall is a simple process, in comparison to large traditional ceremonies. There are many details and tips that only those familiar with this gorgeous location can provide.We are happy to guide our clients through every step of the process.

This is a comprehensive guide to your San Francisco City Hall wedding, and an overview of document application, lighting issues, and what you can expect when you book ES Creation Photography.

General information for San Francisco City Hall wedding

To get a marriage license in California, you must be eighteen years old, but you do not have to be a California or United States resident or citizen (yea for international elopements!). Both parties just need to present and have legal photo identification.

Marriage license

When: Marriage licenses are valid for 90 days from date issued for a ceremony anywhere in the State of California. Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m
Where: San Francisco City Hall, Room 168
How: By appointment only-No walk-Ins accepted More city hall marriage service info

Cost:  $112,Cash, money order, or debit card only in person. Visa/Mastercard online only. more detail click here
Tip: Wedding ceremony can be performed immediately after obtaining license.

 

Civil ceremony (Public)

When: Ceremony appointments are available every half hour between 8:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday.
Where: Rotunda
How: Make a civil marriage ceremony appointment here: http://sfgov.org/countyclerk/online-reservations

Cost: $93
Tip: Book ceremony Mon- Fri after 12pm (Normally less waiting at this time.)
Monday: longer wait for booking.Friday after 12pm: time slots fill quickly

One Hour Wedding package (private ceremony)

When: Monday – Friday 9:00am -3:00pm
Where: Three choices: Mayor’s Balcony, 4th Floor North Gallery, 4th Floor South Gallery
How: Call (415) 554-6079 or click one hour wedding package
Cost: $1,000 and additional fees apply for use of City Hall tables & chairs
Guests: Up to 100
Tips: 4th Floor North Gallery has batter lighting than 4th Floor South Gallery

Two Hour Wedding package (private ceremony)

When: Saturday before 12pm
Where:City Hall Rotunda
How: Call (415) 554-6079
Cost: $5,000
Guests: Up to 200
Tip: Make reservation 3 months ahead. For additional two hour package details

 

Best City Hall Photography Locations

When: Apr.-Sept. 3pm-6pm has best lighting in City Hall, Oct.-Mar. 2pm-5pm
Where: After public ceremony at Rotunda, we always start on the second floor ( easy for bride to walk)
Third floor has beautiful window light. Fourth floor can get a beautiful picture with dome. Save the best and stunning shots on the first floor after 4pm. It is less crowded at this time.