The Ultimate San Diego Courthouse Wedding Guide:
Costs, Photos & Insider Advice

If you’re considering an intimate San Diego courthouse elopement, this guide is for you. It’s not just a popular place for San Diegans to get married but an ideal location for destination wedding couples as well.  As an experienced photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing numerous courthouse wedding ceremonies.  I’m excited to share seven compelling reasons why a San Diego courthouse wedding, should be at the top of your list. Additionally, I’ll answer common questions and provide insider tips to ensure your courthouse wedding planning is seamless and stress-free.

Why a San Diego Courthouse Wedding?

1. Scenic & Iconic Location for Your Wedding

 

Nestled along Pacific Highway, the San Diego County Administration Center offers historic charm and waterfront views, making it one of the most beautiful places in the city to exchange vows. With endless photo opportunities both inside and on the scenic grounds of San Diego Waterfront Park, it’s an ideal spot for tying the knot. The West Arbor, draped in bougainvillea and overlooking the San Diego Bay, is especially popular with couples looking for a romantic outdoor ceremony backdrop.

2. Stress-Free Planning

 

A San Diego courthouse wedding offers unmatched simplicity. Instead of months of stressful planning, you get to relax and enjoy the Southern California vibes—without the pressure of timelines or anyone else’s expectations. And if you’re worried about leaving loved ones out, you can always plan a separate celebration later to include them.

And you’re not limited to just the downtown location—San Diego County also offers ceremonies at courthouses in Chula Vista, San Marcos, and Santee. The Santee courthouse even holds weddings one Saturday each month, perfect if a weekday isn’t an option for you.

 

3. Intimate and Personal

 

Whether you envision an intimate exchange of vows shared solely between you and your partner or prefer to celebrate with a small gathering of your closest family and friends; the courthouse provides the perfect setting. Its intimate atmosphere fosters a sense of closeness and connection, ensuring that your wedding day aligns perfectly with your vision.

4. Affordable Without Sacrificing Quality

 

Choosing a San Diego courthouse wedding is budget-friendly, but that doesn’t mean you give up what matters most. With fewer costs for venues, catering, and décor, you can prioritize investing in beautiful photos—the one lasting keepsake from your day.

5. Nearby Dining Options to Continue the Celebration

Another perk of saying “I do” at the courthouse? You’re surrounded by San Diego’s vibrant food scene. Celebrate with cocktails at Portside Pier overlooking the water, or wander to Little Italy for authentic pasta. With everything from casual bites to fine dining nearby, there’s something to match every style of celebration.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out my guide to the 6 best restaurants for large groups in San Diego — perfect spots to continue the festivities in style.

6. Hotels and Accomodations Just Steps Away

 

Whether you’re making it a quick getaway or hosting family from out of town, there are plenty of hotels within walking distance. From boutique stays to luxury resorts, you can easily turn your wedding into a mini-honeymoon—or invite guests to enjoy San Diego as a destination wedding spot. Given its status as a world-class vacation destination, who wouldn’t want to celebrate with you in paradise?

7. A Touch of History

 

San Diego’s courthouse holds a rich history, adding a layer of significance to your wedding day. By exchanging vows in a place steeped in tradition and heritage, you’re not just starting your own chapter of love but also becoming a part of the city’s story. The blend of historical charm and modern romance creates a unique atmosphere that will make your wedding day even more memorable.

 

As you can see, a San Diego courthouse civil ceremony offers many compelling reasons for couples seeking an intimate, stress-free, and budget-friendly celebration. Overall, it’s the perfect way for couples to celebrate love in a simple yet meaningful way! Who wouldn’t fall in love with the idea of getting married here?

Now that you’re intrigued, dive into these FAQs to learn more about what to expect when booking your appointment, applying for your marriage license, planning for picture-perfect photos, and more!

FAQ – How to Get Married at the San Diego Courthouse

 

A. Where is the courthouse located and what are the hours?

 

The San Diego County Administration Center (1600 Pacific Highway, Suite 103, San Diego, CA 92101) is where courthouse weddings take place. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with appointments available every 30 minutes.

In addition to the downtown location, ceremonies are also available at the Chula Vista, San Marcos, and Santee courthouses. The Santee courthouse even offers Saturday weddings once a month, making it a convenient option for couples who prefer a weekend ceremony.

 

B. How do I book a courthouse wedding appointment in San Diego?

 

Plan ahead!  You can book your San Diego courthouse wedding appointment up to 7 weeks in advance online.  Appointments fill up fast! So log on early for the best chance at securing your preferred time. And don’t forget, you can get your marriage license and have the ceremony on the same day, saving you from making multiple trips to the courthouse.

 

C. What documents are required for a marriage license?

 

To apply for your San Diego courthouse marriage license, bring valid photo identification (driver’s license, passport, or military ID). No residency or blood test is required.

 

D. How much does it cost to get married at the courthouse?

As of 2025, San Diego courthouse wedding costs include a $107 civil ceremony fee, $129 for a public marriage license, and $144 for a confidential license. Witness services are $58 if needed, unless you’re going the confidential route (no witness required!).

 

E. When will we receive our marriage certificate?

Copies of your San Diego marriage certificate are usually available 10 business days after registration. New in 2025: you can now purchase a copy the same day as your appointment. The fee for each certificate is $17. If you plan to take advantage of this same-day option, just be sure your pickup window doesn’t overlap with your portrait session if you’ve booked a photographer.

 

 

F. Should we choose the indoor or outdoor location?

Opt for the iconic West Arbor outdoor venue for stunning views of the San Diego Harbor. Because it’s so popular, early scheduling is highly recommended, and availability can vary due to weather, maintenance, or Waterfront Park events.

**Be sure to check this schedule to make sure your date isn’t affected.**

Indoor ceremonies accommodate up to 15 guests, while outdoor gatherings can host more, weather permitting.  If rain is a concern, don’t worry—you can move the ceremony indoors if needed. Booking the outdoor spot first is ideal, as indoor reservations during the rainy season might limit your flexibility to switch if the weather improves.

 

 

G. What’s the best time of day for a courthouse ceremony?

 

There are two options I highly recommend: the early morning appointment from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. or the late afternoon appointment from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. Why these times? They not only offer less crowded periods but also provide the most flattering lighting for photographs.

If these preferred timeslots aren’t available, aim for the closest appointment to either of these times. But don’t worry if they’re already taken; we can still capture stunning photos at any time of day—it just requires a bit of flexibility and planning around lighting, seasonal changes, and landscaping.

H. How long does the process take?

 

Prepare for a duration of approximately two hours, accounting for licensing procedures and the ceremony itself. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to navigate parking, security checks, and check-in processes smoothly. That includes your guests as well.  They can comfortably wait for you in the large waiting room while you’re completing the licensing process.

I. Is parking difficult near the courthouse?

 

Given it’s a downtown San Diego location, with numerous tourist attractions, restaurants, and amenities abound, one might expect parking to be a challenge! However, here’s a little-known secret: there’s complimentary three-hour parking on Ash St., conveniently located in an underground lot between Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway. Check out this video for an easy guide to locating it.

J. Can we say our own vows during the ceremony?

 

San Diego courthouse wedding vows are brief and prewritten, typically lasting less than ten minutes for the entire ceremony. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t add a personal touch to your civil ceremony.

Consider giving the officiant a heads-up and politely asking if you can share a few words. They’re usually accommodating, and depending on their schedule, they may grant your request. If not, don’t worry—you can always exchange your heartfelt vows after the ceremony, making your moment even more special and personalized.

K. What should we wear for courthouse wedding photos?

 

Feel free to express yourself! A San Diego courthouse wedding embraces individuality, so there are no attire guidelines. Whether you prefer casual chic, formal attire, or even traditional wedding attire, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Adding a small detail—like a bouquet—not only makes the day feel extra special but also adds a beautiful touch to your photos. Your courthouse wedding is about celebrating your love authentically, so dress in a way that reflects your unique style and personality.

L. Do we need a photographer for a courthouse wedding?

 

I’ve photographed countless San Diego courthouse weddings, so I’m familiar with the process from start to finish — where to go, the best times for great light, and what to do if timing or weather isn’t ideal. I’ll guide you through it all, and help you feel comfortable in front of the camera so your photos feel relaxed, natural, and true to you.

M. Where can we take photos afterward?

 

A courthouse wedding can be simple, but your photos don’t have to be. Many couples take portraits right on the courthouse grounds, or they head to nearby Balboa Park, which offers a variety of stunning settings that work at any time of day and throughout the year.

For inspiration, check out this extended courthouse elopement blog, where a couple created a gallery of stunning portraits at both the courthouse grounds and Balboa Park.

Courthouse weddings can also be wonderfully creative and a little offbeat. If you want to see how one couple made their day truly their own, I recently photographed a ceremony at the County Administration Center followed by portraits at a historic San Diego train station. It’s a perfect example of how flexible courthouse wedding photos can be — you’re not limited to one look or location, and you can choose a backdrop that fits your style.

This approach lets you capture a collection of meaningful images across different locations, ensuring your photos feel personal and unique, even with the simplicity of a courthouse ceremony.

N. Planning Resources & Next Steps

From the charm and simplicity to the ease of planning and budget-friendly options, there’s so much to love about a San Diego courthouse wedding. By now, you should feel ready to plan a day that’s uniquely yours—one that reflects your style and story.

If you’re ready to take the next step, check out the helpful links below to get started. When the time comes to make it official, I’d be honored to capture every moment for you.

Here are some helpful links to kick things off:

Schedule your appointment.

Handy tool to help you calculate the date 7 weeks prior to your desired appointment date.

Difference between a public and confidential marriage license.

County Resources:  Requirements, Marriage License, Civil Ceremony, Appointments, Forms, FAQ 

Phone: (619) 237-0502

A helpful YouTube video on how to get your marriage license: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2i4Xz-rdcs 

Courthouse weddings are sweet, but if you’re dreaming of something different, I’m here for it!

Prefer a different vibe than a courthouse wedding? Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration with all your favorite people, I’m here to capture the moments that matter most. No wedding is too big or too small—let’s create photos that tell your story, your way