A Guide to Having a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding: From a Los Angeles Photographer

Are you considering having a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding? I am wedding/elopement photographer who has photographed at this location over 100 times now.

If you’re going for chic and modern, Beverly Hills Courthouse is a classic choice with an Art Deco Style. It's very Lana Del Rey-esque with it's vintage glamour and old Hollywood style.

I will cover everything from marriage license logistics to photo spots only locals know, plus insider tips I’ve picked up while shooting weddings here.

How much does a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding cost?

When it comes to getting married at Beverly Hills Courthouse, the marriage License fee is currently $91 to $100, depending on the type of marriage license you choose. The civil ceremony fee is $35. The Beverly Hills Courthouse can also provide a witness for your civil ceremony for $20.

Pricing will vary, but with photography, a bouquet, professional hair/makeup and wedding outfits, and whether you'd like to treat your guests to a celebratory meal, I would say the total cost could be anywhere between $150 - $3,000.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Married at the Beverly Hills Courthouse

Step 1: Decide If You’d Like to Have a Civil Ceremony VS an Express Marriage

You will be given the opportunity to choose between a civil ceremony or an express ceremony. My personal suggestion is to go with the civil ceremony. It is more personalized. If you are planning on having any guests or a photographer, definitely go with the civil ceremony option. I've included details on each below.

Civil Ceremony = best if you want photos, vows, and guests with you.

Express Marriage = best if you want fast, paperwork-focused, no-frills.

Cost:

• Civil Ceremony Cost: $35
• Express Ceremony: $35

Length:

• Civil Ceremony Length: 10 minutes
• Express Ceremony Length: Just a few minutes

Guests:

• Civil Ceremony: Up to 10-20 people allowed in the ceremony room. I would not bring any more than 20 guests, the area is pretty small.
• Express Ceremony: No guests allowed inside (they can wait outside)

Experience & Vibe:

• Civil Ceremony: More formal and intimate, officiated in a private room / More traditional "mini-wedding" feel
• Express Ceremony: Quick, efficient, done at the clerk's window / Ultra fast and mimimal

• Civil Ceremony: Wed, Thurs, Fri Only
• Express Ceremony: Offered throughout the week

Pro Tips - Availability:

• Civil Ceremony: Book early - slots open the 1st of each month for that month. Summer and fall dates fill up quickly. TIP: Snag the first or last slot of the day for the best timing for photos.
• Express Ceremony: Same booking rules apply.

Step 2: Handle Location Logistics

Beverly Hills Courthouse vs. Beverly Hills City Hall

A lot of people confuse the two. While they are close by to one another, they are two different areas. It's important to clarify this to your guests, so they don't end up at the wrong area.

The Beverly Hills Courthouse

The courthouse is the official spot where civil wedding ceremonies are legally performed by LA County staff. Think of it as City Hall’s practical sibling. It’s not glamorous — honestly, the interior can feel a bit like the DMV (currently with bright yellow walls) but this is where you’ll sign your marriage license and make it official. Most couples do the short, sweet ceremony here before heading outside for photos.

The Beverly Hills City Hall

A five-minute walk away, you’ll find the real showstopper: the iconic Beverly Hills City Hall building. This is the gorgeous Art Deco landmark you’ve probably seen splashed across wedding blogs and Pinterest boards. With its grand architecture, ornate details, palm-lined courtyard, and that famous tiled dome, it’s pretty special.

The only catch? No legal ceremonies are performed inside City Hall. If you want those dreamy photos in the Palm Court or on the steps, you’ll need to do your legal “I dos” at the courthouse first, then stroll over for portraits — or plan a symbolic ceremony outside for the photos.

Planning Notes (Worth flagging)

• Courthouse vs. City Hall: They’re different buildings ~5 minutes apart. Ceremonies happen at the courthouse, not City Hall.
• The courthouse itself isn’t the most photogenic inside, so most couples opt to head outside for pictures afterward.
• Professional photography around Beverly Hills City Hall, the Palm Court, Civic Center Plaza, Rodeo Drive, or Beverly Gardens Park requires a permit. It’s worth it — the setting is stunning and instantly elevates your gallery.
• Arrive early (I always suggest 15–20 minutes before your appointment) since the courthouse only allows a 5-minute grace period if you’re running late.

Step 3: Obtain Your Marriage License

Before getting married at Beverly Hills Courthouse, you’ll need a marriage license.

• Where to apply: All marriages in LA County go through the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk.
• How to apply: Start the application online, then finalize it in person at the courthouse with both partners present.
• Fees: $91 for a public license / $85 for a confidential license.
• Documents needed: Government-issued photo ID. If previously married, bring proof of divorce or death certificate.
• Expiration: The license is valid for 90 days from the issue date.

💡 Pro Tip: Book your license appointment 1–2 weeks before your wedding to avoid a last-minute scramble.

Step 4: Schedule Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding Appointment

Once you have your marriage license, it’s time to schedule your civil ceremony appointment at the Beverly Hills Courthouse.

• Ceremony Fee: $35
• Guest Limit: 10 - 20
• Witness Requirement: 1 witness needed for a public license (courthouse can provide one for $20)
• Length: Short + sweet, usually under 10 minutes
• Officiant: Only courthouse staff can officiate inside — outside ministers are not permitted

Appointment Details

• Appointments are released 3 weeks in advance. If slots are full, keep checking — cancellations can open daily.
• Ceremonies run Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, by appointment only.
• Arrive 15–20 minutes early since ceremonies are often scheduled back-to-back.

How to Book Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

• Online: Book your appointment here
• Phone: Call 1-800-201-8999 to check availability and book.
• Reminder: You must have your marriage license in hand before scheduling.

STEP 5: Choose Your Ceremony Time

When is the Best Time to Have Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding?

One of the biggest questions I get from couples is: “What time of day should we book our Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding?” The truth is, lighting makes all the difference when it comes to your photos.

Here’s everything you need to know to pick the perfect time:

The Best Times of Day

• Early Morning (before 9:30 AM): The light is soft, flattering, and dreamy. You’ll avoid squinting and harsh shadows on your faces — plus, mornings are usually quieter around the courthouse.
• Golden Hour (about 2–2.5 hours before sunset): This is that magical, glowing light that makes everything look cinematic. It’s warm, romantic, and perfect for couple portraits.

Try to avoid the midday hours (11 AM–2 PM) if you can. The sun is at its highest then, which often means harsh light and squinting.

Timing Tips

• Arrive early! The courthouse gives only a 5-minute grace period for late arrivals before canceling your appointment. I always recommend having family and friends arrive 15–20 minutes early so no one feels rushed.
• Things almost always run a few minutes behind on wedding days — which is normal! Building in a little cushion time keeps the whole experience more relaxed.

Seasonal Considerations for Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

• Summer: Hot! Mornings or later afternoons are most comfortable (and most flattering for photos).
• Fall: Gorgeous golden light, comfortable temperatures — a favorite season for courthouse weddings.
• Winter: Mild overall, though you may get the occasional shower. A clear umbrella can actually make for amazing photos, while still letting light onto the subject's face.
• Spring: More flowers, especially in front of the Beverly Hills City Hall. There are a lot of lavender flowers for a good pop of color.

Step 6: Book Your Vendors

Vendors for Beverly Hills Courthouse weddings or elopements typically include the following:

• Your photographer
• A florist for your bouquet
• Hair and Makeup Artist

Where to Grab Flowers

Forgot a bouquet? No problem—Beverly Hills has you covered.

• Empty Vase: Lush, dramatic arrangements, often with orchids and roses.
• Mark’s Garden: Known for celebrity weddings—expect showstopping designs.
• Isabelle’s Flower Shop: Perfect for chic, last-minute arrangements.

STEP 7: Secure Your Photography Permit

When it comes to Beverly Hills Courthouse photos, most couples don’t take portraits inside the courthouse (the ceremony room is small and dark). Instead, they walk 5 minutes over to the gorgeous Beverly Hills City Hall — with its tiled dome, palm court, and cinematic arches.

Important: You’ll need a photography permit + insurance coverage to shoot here. (Don’t stress — most professional photographers already carry the required insurance. In most cases, you’ll just cover the permit fee.)

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Photography Permit Costs

• Application Fee: $69 (processing takes 5 business days)
• Hourly Fee: $83/hour (max 2 hours)
• Typical Total: ~$235

Apply online HERE or call the Beverly Hills Film + Photography Permit Office at (310) 285-2408.

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When to Apply

• Apply 7 business days in advance (no more than 60 days out).
• ❌ The City will not approve permits if you apply less than 2 business days before your date.

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Late Application Fees

• 2–6 business days out: +$308 fee
• 2 business days out: $308 late fee + $137 rush fee

(Pro tip: Save yourself the headache — apply early!)

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Insurance Requirement for Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Your photographer can most likely provide the insurance or one can easily get one day insurance through a site like Event Helper. The Certificate of Insurance (COI) must have the following details:

• $2 million liability coverage (general aggregate)
• City of Beverly Hills listed as additional insured

STEP 8: Select a Close-By Secondary Location for Photos

Most couples say “I do” at the courthouse, then head to Beverly Hills City Hall (just a 5-minute walk away) for portraits. And honestly, it’s stunning. ✨ Spanish Renaissance architecture, palm-lined courtyards, tiled domes — it photographs like a dream.

But here’s the fun part: there are so many other incredible spots nearby for your Beverly Hills Courthouse photos if you want variety. I always recommend adding a secondary location for portraits.

Note: Every location has its own photography/permit rules...your photographer will guide you on what’s needed.

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My Favorite Route

Courthouse ➡️ City Hall ➡️ Greystone Mansion OR UCLA
This route gives you a mix of elegant architecture, lush gardens, and cinematic editorial vibes.

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Popular Photo Locations Near the Courthouse

Beverly Hills City Hall (0.2 miles / 5 min walk)

• Ornate Spanish Renaissance architecture
• Iconic dome + courtyard
• Easy, convenient, and absolutely gorgeous

Beverly Gardens Park (0.3 miles / 10–20 min walk)

• Iconic Beverly Hills sign
• Rose gardens, cactus garden, Electric Fountain
• A little more walking, but worth it

Will Rogers Memorial Park (0.2 miles / 5 min walk)

• Across the street from the courthouse
• Lush greenery, pond, and historic gazebo
• Perfect for a quick stop

Greystone Mansion & Gardens (1.8 miles / drive)

• Historic estate with sweeping gardens
• Grand staircases + dramatic architecture
• Perfect for cinematic editorial portraits

Virginia Robinson Gardens (2.1 miles / drive)

• Botanical gardens + fountains
• Unique architectural details
• Feels enchanting and tucked away

Franklin Canyon Park (4.4 miles / drive)

• Natural setting with lake + trails
• Scenic views of the Santa Monica Mountains
• Great if you want a more outdoorsy look

Coldwater Canyon Park (3.1 miles / drive)

• Meandering trails + charming bridges
• Lots of greenery for romantic portraits

UCLA Campus (4.5 miles / drive)

• Iconic Royce Hall + brick architecture
• Sculpture garden + historic courtyards
• Feels elegant, not like a campus in photos

Step 9: Finalize Ceremony Details for Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

By this stage, you’ve got your license, your appointment, and your outfits ready to go. Now let’s talk about those last little details that make your Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding uniquely yours.

Guest Count for Your Beverly Courthouse Wedding

• Officially, the courthouse says up to 12 guests are allowed.
• In reality? They’re usually not too strict (within reason). I’ve seen couples squeeze in around 20 guests.

Vows + Ring Exchange

• Want to exchange rings? ✔️ Allowed.
• Want to write your own vows? ✔️ Go for it.
• Just be sure to let the judge or commissioner know ahead of time so it flows smoothly.

Readings or Music

Yes, you can bring in your own touches:

• Personalized vows
• Short readings
• Even a song for your entrance/exit
  Just check with the deputy commissioner beforehand so there are no surprises.

Witness Requirement for your Beverly Hills Courthouse WEdding

• You’ll need at least one witness to sign your marriage license.
• Don’t have one? The courthouse can provide a witness for $20.
• Bonus: If it’s just the two of you eloping and I’m your photographer, I’m happy to be your witness. (I love that part!)

Decor & Personal Touches

• Allowed: bouquets, small floral arrangements, a guest book, or little table accents.
• Not allowed: anything that alters the courthouse space (arches, backdrops, heavy décor).
• Best practice: check with the staff beforehand so you know exactly what’s permitted.

Pro Tip: Keep things simple. A bouquet, your outfits, and a little music can transform the space without overcomplicating

STEP 10: Make Plans for After Your Ceremony

Just because you chose a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you can’t end the day in style. Beverly Hills is packed with incredible restaurants that are perfect for a mini reception, intimate dinner, or champagne toast. Here are some favorites:

The Beverly Hills Hotel – Polo Lounge

• Iconic, glamorous, old Hollywood vibes, romantic
• Pink walls + history = a once-in-a-lifetime vibe

Spago

• Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant
• Sleek, modern, and perfect for true foodies

Il Pastaio

• Classic Italian dishes with celebrity sightings on the side
• Bustling yet cozy — a Beverly Hills staple

Avra Beverly Hills

• Upscale Greek seafood with a glamorous, airy feel
• Perfect if you love Mediterranean flavors and chic décor

La Dolce Vita

• Vintage Beverly Hills charm with Rat Pack history
• Dim lighting, old Hollywood energy — cozy and nostalgic

Pro Tip: Make reservations early — especially if your wedding is on a Friday. These spots are local favorites, and tables fill fast!

STEP 11: Craft Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding Timeline

This will help keep your day stress free! If you're wondering how to best create a wedding day timeline, I've included to templates below!

Please keep in mind that these timelines are simply examples! We can always customize the perfect timeline to best fit you needs! We can include a picnic at the beach, a short hike, portraits at a farther location with a completely different backdrop, etc. The options are limitless!

Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding Timeline Template

Sample Timelines

Short & Sweet (2 hours)

• 8:00 AM – Meet + Couple Portraits
• 9:10 AM – Walk to Beverly Hills Courthouse for the ceremony, go through security, check in
• 9:30 AM - Ceremony
• 9:45 AM - Family Portraits
• 10:00 AM - Photography Ends

Half-Day Celebration (4 hours)

• 2:00 PM – First look at Beverly Hills City Hall + Couple Portraits
• 3:00 PM – Ceremony at courthouse.
• 3:30 PM – Family photos outside.
• 4:00 PM – Portraits at a secondary location
• 5:00 PM – Dinner at Spago or Il Pastaio, speeches, toasts, cake cutting
• 6:00 PM - Photography Ends

Beverly Hills Wedding vs. Other LA Courthouses

LA Courthouses & City Halls: Which One Fits Your Wedding Style?

Los Angeles has several courthouse and city hall options for couples planning an intimate wedding or elopement. Each one has its own personality. Here’s my honest photographer’s take on the most popular spots:

Beverly Hills Courthouse

If you’re going for chic and modern, Beverly Hills Courthouse is a classic choice with an Art Deco Style.

Why couples love it: Iconic location, stylish look, and photogenic surroundings.
What to keep in mind: The ceremony room is pretty small, and guest capacity is limited — perfect for intimate groups, but not for larger families.

Downtown LA – Stanley Mosk Courthouse

This one is for couples who love grand and historic vibes. The architecture is dramatic and the location couldn’t be more central.

Why couples love it: Gorgeous, imposing building and right in the heart of the city.
What to keep in mind: It’s busy. Think crowds, long waits, and less intimacy than other spots.

Pasadena City Hall

This is the crown jewel if you’re after romantic, European-inspired vibes. Pasadena City Hall is iconic, cinematic, and endlessly photogenic. The arches, courtyards, and fountain make it feel like you’ve been whisked away to Europe.

Why couples love it: Stunning architecture, incredible photo spots, and the ultimate elopement backdrop.
What to keep in mind: They don’t perform legal civil ceremonies here. You’ll need to bring your own officiant, and if you want a formal setup, you’ll also need a permit. So in that way, getting married at the Beverly Hills Courthouse is more convenient and an easier process.

Norwalk Courthouse

Norwalk is more about ease than style. It’s suburban, practical, and straightforward — the opposite of flashy.

Why couples love it: Less crowded, easier to book, and very efficient.
What to keep in mind: It’s not the most photogenic courthouse in LA. If stylish backdrops are important, you may want to head elsewhere for portraits.

Van Nuys Courthouse

Van Nuys is very much a no-frills option. It’s convenient and gets the job done, but don’t expect a ton of charm.

Why couples love it: Easy parking and a smooth, efficient process.
What to keep in mind: It doesn’t have the romantic vibe or strong photo opportunities you’ll find elsewhere.

Bottom line:

Pasadena City Hall = romantic + cinematic (but does not perform ceremonies, you'll need to bring your own officiant)

Beverly Hills Courthouse = chic + intimate

Downtown LA = historic + dramatic (but crowded)

Norwalk & Van Nuys = practical + easy (but less stylish)

FAQS About a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Do we need rings?

Not legally. But most couples bring them and exchange during the ceremony.

How many guests can we bring to our Beverly Courthouse Wedding?

Officially, up to 10 guests. In practice, I’ve seen as many as 20 squeezed in. Just know the room is small and can feel tight.

When are ceremonies held?

Appointments run Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. Arrive early — ceremonies are often back-to-back.

What if we need to cancel or reschedule?

Notify the courthouse at least 24 hours in advance to avoid losing your fee. Emergencies may be accommodated, but call ASAP.

Where do we park?

• Courthouse parking (paid) + metered street parking nearby
• Address: 9355 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
• Accessible: ramps, elevators, and restrooms are available — call ahead for specifics

Can we bring a photographer or videographer?

Yes! Professionals are welcome. Just let the courthouse know in advance and follow any rules on equipment, lighting, or setup.

What to Wear: Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding Style Inspo

What's most important is that you wear what FEELS like you both. You should feel confident and radiant.

If you're looking for inspo, a courthouse wedding is the perfect excuse to experiment with fashion. You’re not locked into tradition, and because the space is modern and neutral, your outfit makes an impact.

Brides

• Chic minis & midis: Think structured white mini dresses with puff sleeves, silk slip dresses, or vintage-inspired lace midis.
• Jumpsuits & suits: Tailored white jumpsuits with dramatic wide legs, or even a bridal pantsuit with sleek heels.
• Statement veils: Yes, you can rock a cathedral-length veil in a courthouse. Trust me, it looks epic flowing against marble walls.
• Accessories: Pearl headbands, gold statement earrings, vintage clutch bags.

Grooms

• Tailored suits: Navy, charcoal, or even a crisp cream suit for a summer vibe.
• Casual cool: A blazer with tailored trousers, no tie, and loafers.
• Playful details: Patterned ties, colorful socks, or chic sunglasses.

Beverly Hills Wedding Venues

You may want to integrate the beauty of the Beverly Hills Courthouse into your wedding day somehow, but perhaps you’re still looking for a wedding venue for a larger wedding reception.

In this case, the Beverly Hills Courthouse can be used for your portraits, while a nearby wedding venue can be used for your reception.

For Beverly Hills wedding venue recommendations, view my Beverly Hills Wedding Guide below:

15 Dreamy Beverly Hills Wedding Venues

Get In Touch!

If you're looking for a Malibu Wedding Photographer to capture your wedding day, then I am your gal! Inquire down below to chat about wedding details and to capture your Cielo Farms Wedding!