If you’re considering getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, you’re in good company. This historic landmark has become one of the most popular courthouse wedding venues in California—for good reason. With its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, sun-soaked gardens, and laid-back coastal vibe, it offers a beautiful backdrop without the high cost of a traditional venue.
Whether you’re planning an elopement, a small wedding, or just want something simple but memorable, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse.
Why Choose the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
The Santa Barbara Courthouse stands out for a few key reasons:
- Scenic Location: The building itself is stunning, with archways, tilework, and a clock tower overlooking the ocean and mountains.
- Affordable: Compared to most wedding venues in California, getting married here is relatively inexpensive.
- Versatile: Whether you want a private ceremony or something more styled with guests and photography, the courthouse works for all types of couples.
It’s ideal for couples looking for a stress-free, scenic, and budget-friendly wedding day.
Types of Ceremonies Available
There are two main options when it comes to getting married at the courthouse:
- Civil Ceremony (with an officiant from the courthouse)
These are quick, simple ceremonies performed by a deputy marriage commissioner. You can bring up to eight guests, and ceremonies are typically held in the courthouse gardens or other outdoor areas. - Private Ceremony (with your own officiant)
If you want a bit more flexibility with your schedule, number of guests, or the ceremony wording, you can bring your own officiant. Many couples choose this route so they can personalize their ceremony and take more time for photos before or after.
How to Reserve Your Wedding Date
For civil ceremonies, you’ll need to:
- Make an appointment with the Santa Barbara County Clerk’s Office.
- Pay a small fee (usually around $104 for the license and $104 for the ceremony as of 2025).
- Arrive on time with valid photo IDs.
Appointments can book out weeks in advance, especially on popular dates, so it’s smart to plan ahead.
For private ceremonies, you’ll need to reserve a space in the courthouse gardens if you plan to have a formal setup (like chairs, arch, or decor). You can do this through the Santa Barbara County Parks Department. The Sunken Gardens is the most common location for private weddings and events.
Best Spots for Photos
Even if you’re doing a quick elopement, the courthouse grounds give you plenty of opportunities for beautiful wedding portraits. Some of the most photographed spots include:
- The Clock Tower: Offers panoramic views of Santa Barbara.
- The Mural Room: A stunning interior location with rich colors and details (great for a backup if weather’s not ideal).
- The Archways and Staircases: These architectural elements add a lot of character to your wedding photos.
- The Sunken Gardens: Perfect for group shots or couples portraits.
Pro tip: If you’re hiring a photographer, schedule at least an hour for portraits around the building. The light in the afternoon is especially flattering.
Parking and Accessibility
There’s a public parking lot right next to the courthouse on Anacapa Street, and it’s generally easy to find street parking as well. For guests with mobility issues, the courthouse is wheelchair accessible, including elevators to the upper floors and tower.
What to Bring on the Day
- Your marriage license (can be issued the same day by the County Clerk).
- Valid photo IDs for both partners.
- A witness (if you’re doing a civil ceremony—your photographer or guest can serve as one).
- Rings, if you’re exchanging them (not required, but most couples choose to).
- A bouquet or any other small accessories you’d like for photos.
When to Book Vendors
Even if you’re keeping things simple, it helps to have your key vendors booked at least 2–3 months in advance. That includes:
- Photographer (for coverage before, during, and after your ceremony)
- Hair and makeup artist (if desired)
- Florist (for a bouquet or boutonniere)
Santa Barbara has many vendors familiar with courthouse weddings, and many offer small wedding or elopement packages.
FAQ: Santa Barbara Courthouse Weddings
1. Do we need a permit to get married at the courthouse?
If you’re doing a civil ceremony through the County Clerk’s Office, you do not need a separate permit. If you’re planning a private ceremony with an officiant and decor, you’ll need to reserve the space through the Parks Department.
2. Can we bring guests to our courthouse wedding?
Yes, but the number depends on the type of ceremony. Civil ceremonies are limited to around 8 guests. Private ceremonies can accommodate more, depending on your reservation and setup.
3. What’s the best time of year to get married at the courthouse?
Santa Barbara has great weather year-round, but spring and fall are especially nice. Weekdays are less crowded and easier to book if you’re hoping for more privacy and cleaner backgrounds in your photos.
Getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a great way to keep things low-key while still celebrating in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re planning something simple or adding a few personal touches, this venue makes it easy to have a wedding day that feels like you—without all the extra stress or cost.
If you’re thinking about tying the knot here and want photos that reflect the full experience, I’d love to chat about capturing your day.
If you like this Santa Barbara intimate wedding, check out another intimate wedding at the Hotel Californian.
