Are you dreaming of a romantic, iconic wedding at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
You’re not alone! The historic courthouse, with its stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and lush gardens, is one of California’s most sought-after wedding venues.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse — including permits, ceremony locations, costs, photography tips, and more!

Why Choose the Santa Barbara Courthouse for Your Wedding?

The Santa Barbara Courthouse is famous for:

• Beautiful architecture (perfect for photos)

• Multiple ceremony locations

• Affordable options compared to traditional venues

• Year-round temperate weather

• Historic charm and lush gardens

It’s an ideal spot for elopements, intimate weddings, and even larger ceremonies.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License

Before anything, you’ll need a California marriage license.
Here’s how:

• Where to Apply: Santa Barbara County Clerk-Recorder’s Office

• Address: 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

• Requirements:

  • Both parties must appear in person

  • Bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)

  • No blood tests required

• Cost: Approximately $100 (subject to change)

💡 Pro Tip: You can apply online beforehand to save time. Visit the Santa Barbara Clerk-Recorder website to start the application.

Step 2: Choose Your Ceremony Type

You have two options:

• Civil Ceremony: Performed by a Deputy Marriage Commissioner at the courthouse.

• Self-Organized Ceremony: Hire your own officiant and book a private area of the courthouse grounds.

Civil Ceremony Details:

• Quick and simple (5–10 minutes)

• Performed indoors or in the garden area

• Cost: Approximately $100–$200 depending on location and day

Self-Organized Wedding Details:

• Ideal for a more personalized ceremony

• You must reserve a specific space (see next step)

Step 3: Reserve Your Ceremony Location (If Needed)

If you want to use a specific spot on courthouse grounds (for a private ceremony or gathering), you must book in advance.

Popular ceremony spots include:

How to Reserve:
Contact the Santa Barbara Courthouse Reservation Desk at (805) 568-2460 or visit the official courthouse reservation page.

Important:

• Reservations on weekends
  book up 6–12 months in advance (especially for spring and summer weddings).

• Some locations may require additional insurance coverage.

Step 4: Plan Your Wedding Day Details

• Photography: The Santa Barbara Courthouse offers breathtaking photo opportunities around every corner. 📸 Hiring a local photographer familiar with the courthouse layout can make a huge difference! A photographer that is very familiar with the grounds and best spots will help you make the most of your photography experience.

• Guests: Plan based on location capacity. Even simple elopements here feel grand!

• Parking: Metered street parking is available. A few nearby parking structures offer longer-term parking.

• Flowers and Decor: Allowed, but restrictions apply (especially for indoor spaces).

• Accessibility: The courthouse is wheelchair accessible.

• Weather: Mild year-round, but mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photos.

Santa Barbara Courthouse Wedding Photography Tips

As a photographer who specializes in all kinds of weddings and elopements, here are my top insider tips:

• Golden Hour Magic: Plan your photos an hour before sunset for soft, dreamy lighting. If this doesn’t work with your day, don’t worry, there are incredible photo spots at the Santa Barbara Courthouse that can be amazing for photos at other times of the day as well.

• Best Photo Spots:

  • Archways on the Anacapa Street side

  • Inside the Mural Room

  • Bell Tower staircase

  • Sunken Gardens

• Backup Plan: If rain is in the forecast (rare but possible), the courthouse interiors are just as photogenic.

• Permit Note: Professional photography doesn’t usually require a separate permit if it’s part of your wedding package, but check when reserving spaces.

If you’d like a photographer who knows every corner of the Santa Barbara Courthouse and can help guide your day, Lets Chat!

FAQs About Getting Married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse

How much does it cost to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?

Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $1,500, depending on if you’re doing a simple civil ceremony or a larger wedding with reserved grounds.

Do you need a permit for a Santa Barbara Courthouse wedding?

Yes, for organized or larger ceremonies. Small elopements with just an officiant and 2 witnesses might not require a permit — but always check ahead.

Can you have a reception at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?

No receptions or alcohol are allowed on courthouse grounds. Most couples move to a local restaurant or nearby event space afterward.

How far in advance should you book the Santa Barbara Courthouse?

For weekend dates or peak seasons (spring, early summer, fall), reserve at least 6–12 months ahead. Weekdays will likely have much more availability.

Final Thoughts: Why the Santa Barbara Courthouse is Perfect for Your Wedding

From the stunning Spanish architecture to the lush garden ceremony spaces, the Santa Barbara Courthouse offers couples a beautiful, affordable, and unforgettable way to say “I do.”

If you’re planning your day and want to make it absolutely perfect, professional photography is the best investment you can make.
Want to capture every beautiful moment?
👉 Contact me here for availability and custom Santa Barbara Courthouse wedding packages!