In short
- Groups over 15 need a permit and reservation.
- The Sunken Gardens hold up to 250 guests.
- Petals, rice, confetti, and amplified sound are banned.
In this article
- Do you need a reservation to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
- What is the capacity of the Sunken Gardens for a wedding?
- Can you get married inside the courthouse?
- Are there restrictions for weddings on the courthouse grounds?
- Are there any photography restrictions at the courthouse?
- Can wedding guests tour the courthouse after?
Getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse requires planning. You must bring a government-issued ID for legal services. If you plan to invite a large group, you need to reserve your space and pay the required fee.
Do you need a reservation to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
Yes, if you have more than 15 guests.
Ceremonies on the grounds with more than 15 guests require a formal reservation and a permit fee. Smaller groups under 15 may not need a formal reservation, but a government-issued ID is always required for legal services.
What is the capacity of the Sunken Gardens for a wedding?
The Sunken Gardens lawn accommodates up to 250 guests for outdoor ceremonies.
The courthouse grounds offer five distinct garden spaces you can reserve. The Palm Terrace is an elevated outdoor space facing the clock tower that holds up to 125 guests.
Can you get married inside the courthouse?
Yes, you can reserve the historic Mural Room for indoor ceremonies.
The Mural Room has a maximum capacity of 100 guests. It features more than 4,000 square feet of painted canvas murals and ornate chandeliers. Note that the El Mirador Clock Tower viewing area cannot be reserved for weddings.
Are there restrictions for weddings on the courthouse grounds?
Yes. Amplified sound and thrown items are strictly prohibited.
You can only play soft acoustic music during your event. Throwing petals, rice, confetti, or birdseed is considered littering and is banned on the property.
Are there any photography restrictions at the courthouse?
Yes. Extendable tripods and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited.
The clock tower deck closes half an hour before the courthouse; confirm hours with the Docent Council (805-962-6464). Small bags and purses must also go through security.
Can wedding guests tour the courthouse after?
Yes, guests can explore the public areas for free until closing time.
The clock tower deck closes half an hour before the courthouse; confirm hours with the Docent Council (805-962-6464). Visitors can climb the 85-foot El Mirador Clock Tower or take an elevator to see 360-degree views of the city. Free docent-led tours are also available at 2:00 PM daily, plus 10:30 AM on weekdays.
Questions travellers ask
Where do wedding guests park for the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
Guests can park in downtown city garages such as Lot 6 (Granada Garage) and Lot 7 (Library Garage). The first 75 minutes are free, and it costs $3 per hour after that.
Are dogs allowed at a courthouse wedding?
Leashed dogs are allowed in the outdoor Sunken Gardens. They are not permitted inside the courthouse buildings.
How much does a wedding at the Santa Barbara Courthouse cost?
Groups larger than 15 guests require a formal reservation and a permit fee. Specific fee amounts vary by the reserved space.
