A Guide to Eloping at the Santa Barbara Courthouse
Quick Reference
The first step to getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is making an appointment.
For the same day license and ceremony, get an appointment here.
If you already have a license, there is a ceremony only option, you can get an appointment here.
Click here to see all your language and appointment options.
As a local photographer and CA native who got married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, this is one of my favorite locations to recommend. It’s a stunning landmark in a quintessential California beach town that can accommodate elopements, small ceremonies, and even larger weddings. Being only steps from the beach, surrounded by fine-dining, hotels, wineries, and the pier; it’s no surprise Santa Barbara is a top wedding destination.
The intimate setting at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a unique opportunity for emotional photos of the ceremony and romantic portraits on the grounds. Choosing to tie the knot at the Santa Barbara Courthouse allows you to get the marriage license and ceremony in the same day, and then take advantage of the incredible restaurants and beaches nearby.
Appointments are released 90 days in advance, hour by hour, on a rolling basis. The spots can be competitive, so plan accordingly! You can check the calendar here. Civil Ceremonies are offered Monday through Friday, in English and Spanish.
On the Big Day
For a civil ceremony, you start by checking in at the Hall of Records on the corner of Anapumu and Anacapa Streets. Both parties must be present to apply for the license. Here’s what you need to bring with you:
A valid ID (driver’s license, passport, consular ID, military ID, or permanent resident card)
A form of payment to cover cost of the license (now is also a good time to order certified copies).
Witness (this person could be a family member, friend, or your photographer! They must also have a valid ID). ** If you are doing a confidential license, then you don’t need a witness. **
If you plan to exchange rings, be sure to bring them with you!
Vows are optional, the Deputy Marriage Commissioner is not required to let you read your own during the ceremony, but they might if you ask. You can also find a private spot on the grounds to read your personal vows if you weren’t able to in the ceremony.
The ceremony itself will either be directly outside the Clerk Recorder Assessor Area, overlooking the Sunken Gardens, or at an indoor balcony overlooking the Hall of Records.
Please note that exact views cannot be guaranteed. This is a public place, and there may be other weddings and events happening throughout the grounds simultaneously.
Guests
Guest count for civil ceremonies is now limited to 15 (fifteen) guests — including children and photographers. The indoor space is limited to 10 (ten) guests. Check up-to-date info here.
Parking
City Lot #7 is the easiest parking option at 1115 Anacapa Street. The first 75 minutes are free, and then it’s $3 an hour. Street parking is available around the courthouse, but limited to 75 minutes.
Photography
My top recommendation for eloping at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is to book a photographer! An elopement, especially at this stunning location, deserves to be memorialized as the special occasion that it is. Photography is allowed on the property, throughout the public space (other events may be taking place, so some flexibility is key) and even inside the courthouse, like in the tower and the staircase.
There’s no reason to stop at the courthouse. The nearby streets have great photo ops, and we can continue the party to a nearby restaurant or even to the beach.
Local Recommendations
Food & Drink
SB Biergarten - Laid back German good and excellent drinks. The big draw is a stunning patio and a relaxed chic vibe.
Hotels
Hotel Californian - Recently renovated both modern and seriously harkening to the Spanish history in Santa Barbara, this upscale hotel is located near the Funk Zone and the ocean.
Ritz-Carlton Bacara - Stunning hotel that is the height of luxury. Located out of town, this is a peaceful retreat from the Santa Barbara nightlife. If you’re looking to be pampered in peaceful seclusion, this is the hotel for you.
Sources