FAQ
FOR ANY QUESTIONS NOT COVERED BELOW PLEASE Email US AT INFO@SFCITYHALLPHOTO.COM, OR GIVE US A CALL AT (415) 770-0555
Finding quality information in preparation for your wedding at San Francisco's city hall is tough. Therefore, we've started a reference section aimed at shining light upon all the questions you may have about the entire process.
How do I reserve a photographer?
Click on Check Availability. Just give us your marriage ceremony appointment date and time, and we will check to make sure we are still free for your wedding.
Once we confirm availability we require payment in full to finalize your reservation. We invoice electronically via PayPal or Square, secure online payment processors. Customers also have the option of paying through our site directly if they prefer.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept paypal, all major forms of credit or debit cards. Call us today if you have questions about other forms of payment.
How much is a marriage at SF City Hall?
The typical marriage costs are broken down into your marriage license and marriage ceremony fees. The marriage license is $104, while your marriage ceremony costs $78. Most couples also opt for an additional marriage souvenir, which is an additional $6. Please confirm with City Hall though, as pricing is subject to change.
How do I make a marriage ceremony appointment?
Appointments are made through the county's Online Reservation System. Couples may do so up to 90 days in advance, and will also need their marriage license appointment scheduled prior to their ceremony appointment.
What are the marriage license requirements?
In order to obtain a marriage license you must first create an appointment online. The actual requirements can be found here, but as long as both parties are over 18, with valid ID's, and are there on their own free will, you will receive a marriage license. International couples also welcome!
Do we need a witness?
You need at least one witness with you while you handle all the paperwork prior to your civil ceremony. This all takes place in the county clerks office in room 168 located in the NW corner of the building.
Can you be our witness?
Of course love being asked that!
When is the best time to get married at city hall?
The best time to get married is really a matter of personal preference. However, if you're looking for the quietest times try Monday-Thursday after 2 PM.
How many guests may I have during my ceremony?
The official rule is 6 guests. Though since City Hall reopened after Covid lockdown, this rule isn't stictly enforced. We recommend though that you have more than 10 guests consider renting one of the spaces at the City Hall. It does come with an additional cost
Who performs the ceremony?
The civil marriage ceremonies are performed by volunteer judges and justices of the peace. Most officiants are happy and thrilled to be apart of your wedding, however some are less than average.
Another option is hiring a private officiant to perform your ceremony. These professionals help facilitate the paperwork process and are wonderful at adding personal touches to your ceremony (i.e. exchanging vows, accommodate for special requests).
Where will the ceremony take place?
The majority of civil ceremonies are preformed in the rotunda at the top of the grand staircase on the second floor of city hall. Parties can also get in contact with city hall if they are interested in renting out the Governor's Balcony or the 4th floor balcony (Prices start at $1,002).
Where is the best place to park?
Parking in downtown San Francisco is notoriously difficult. Therefore, the safest bet is to use the three story underground parking lot beneath the grounds in front of city hall. This will save you a ton of time and hassle looking for parking, and avoids running out to replenish your meter.
Where will we meet our photographer?
We like to meet our clients 15-minutes before their scheduled check-in at the clerk's office. Typically this happens at the base of the grand staircase. It is a good time to meet your photographer and plan out how the shoot will take place. Especially if you have a larger party. We can direct you to the nearest restroom, show you which elevators go where, and provide everyone with a lay of the land.
Is their handicap access at City Hall
There is wheelchair and handicap access on all levels and we are happy to make your ceremony and portrait session available to all of your guests.
What other suggestions do you have for couples getting married at city hall?
Be sure to check out our guide on a perfect city hall wedding. This is part of a larger collection giving couples the information they crave heading into their San Francisco City Hall wedding.