How to Reserve the Historic Courtroom at the Old Orange County Courthouse for a Wedding
5 Steps How to Book the Historic Courtroom at the Old Orange County Courthouse
Planning a wedding at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana offers a unique and charming experience steeped in history. Known for its stunning red sandstone, early 20th century architecture, and timeless elegance. The courthouse provides an unforgettable backdrop for civil ceremonies, elopements, and vow renewals. In this step-by-step guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about booking the historic courtroom and planning your special day.
Note: The information on this page is for those looking to upgrade their courthouse wedding or plan to invite more than 20 guests. You have the option to rent the spacious Superior Courtroom upstairs, which is perfect for a larger audience as it can seat up to 75 guests.
For general information on what to expect from a courthouse wedding and the process on how to get married at the Old Orange County Courthouse be sure to read our article on the
5 Steps For Getting Married At the Old OC Courthouse
Learn more about Christopher Todd Studios' courthouse wedding photography
Step 1: Understand What the Santa Ana Courtroom Offers
The Historic Courtroom at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is a preserved gem dating back to 1901. It features original woodwork, vintage chandeliers, and an ambiance that feels like stepping back in time. Couples can reserve the courtroom for civil ceremonies or private weddings. The surrounding courthouse grounds also offer scenic spots for photos.
Key Features:
- Authentic historic setting
- Ornate judge's bench
- Indoor and outdoor photo opportunities
- Suitable for small to mid-sized weddings
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t reserve the Historic Courtroom for your ceremony, there’s still a good chance you can take photos there. As long as the room isn’t in use and the courthouse isn’t too busy. I’ve been able to bring many couples upstairs for a quick photo opportunity.
Step 2: Check Availability and Make a Reservation
Reserving the historic courtroom is your first step. To make a reservation, contact the staff at the OC Parks office at 714-973-6605. There are no online reservation options now. In addition, this is a different department than the OC Clerk- Recorder office, where you book your online appointment for an Orange County marriage license and a civil ceremony.
Booking Details:
- Check availability call the OC Parks office at 714-973-6605.
- Reservations can be made 90 days in advance up to one day prior.
- Same-day reservations are not available
- Fees: $600 to rent the historic courtroom
- Refundable Security Deposit $300
The courtroom can be reserved Monday-Friday in 2 hour time blocks, 12 pm-2 pm or 2:15-4 pm. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served availability basis.
Pro Tip:
Book your reservation for the courtroom first before you make your marriage license and civil ceremony appointments. Get all the details about the
weddings at the Santa Ana courthouse.
Step 3: Obtain an Orange County Marriage License
Once you have a confirmation on your reservation, your next step is to make an online appointment for your Orange County Marriage license and civil ceremony. You must have a valid California marriage license before your wedding. The Orange County Clerk-Recorder office offers in-person and online appointment options. You can get your marriage license on the same day as your civil marriage ceremony. Online appointments should be scheduled after you reserve the Old OC Courtroom.
Requirements:
- Both parties must be present.
- Valid government-issued ID required. (Current passport or drivers license)
- No blood test necessary.
- Public License fee: $61(Must bring one witness)
- Confidential license: $68 (no witness required)
- Valid for 90 days
Pro Tip: If you’re bringing your own officiant, you don’t need to make a civil ceremony appointment or pay the $28 fee. But if you want a court-appointed officiant, you must pay the fee and schedule the civil ceremony for the same day you reserved the Historic Courtroom.
Orange County Marriage license and civil ceremony appointments can be made at the official website of the Orange County Clerk-Recorder's office.
These are your options below.
- Submit your application to obtain a marriage license and schedule an appointment. (choose this one if you are bringing your own officiant)
- Submit your application to obtain a marriage license and schedule an appointment for a civil ceremony. (choose this one if you are using a court appointed officiant)
Step 4: Plan Your Ceremony Details
Once your venue and license are secured, it’s time to personalize your ceremony.
Consider:
- Officiant: Decide if you will use a courthouse-appointed Deputy Commissioner of Marriage from the County Clerk's office to perform the ceremony. Or bring your own authorized marriage officiant.
- Guest limit: 75 people in the Historic Courtroom.
- Decor: Minimal decor is allowed; check with the office for specifics.
- Photography: You're welcome to bring a photographer. Some couples hire local professionals familiar with the courthouse layout.
Pro Tip: Book your civil ceremony right away after you secure your historic courtroom date. You only need to book a civil ceremony if you are not bringing your own officiant.
Step 5: The Old Courthouse Wedding Day Tips
To make your orange county courthouse wedding day go smoothly:
Day-of Advice:
- Arrive 20-30 minutes early to find parking and check in. If you hire a photographer don't check in without them.
- Bring: Witness, valid IDs, and confirmation receipt.
- Parking: Available nearby; metered and structured options.
- 1st Check-in: Go to the Clerk-Recorder’s desk upon arrival. This is on the first floor.
- 2nd Check-in: Don't forget to check-in up stairs for your historic courtroom reservation.
- Decorations: If you plan on decorating the courtroom, you must follow all guidelines. Set up and break down must be done and completed within your 2-hour time slot.
Bonus Tips
- Photo spots: The grand staircase, outside under the archways, and in front of the courthouse.
- Celebration ideas: Nearby restaurants like Chapter One or The Filling Station Cafe are great for a post-ceremony meal.
- Vendors: Look for local photographers familiar with courthouse weddings.
Bottom Line
Booking your wedding at the Old Orange County Courthouse is a beautiful and affordable way to celebrate your love in a historic setting. With the right planning and a touch of personalization, your courthouse wedding can be just as magical as any traditional venue.
Be sure to reserve the historic courtroom first to lock in the date you want. Then, make your online reservation for your marriage license for the same day. If you are using the courthouse-appointed officiant, be sure to make your online reservation for your civil ceremony after you reserve the historic courtroom.
For up-to-date information visit the
Orange County Clerk-Recorder’s official site.
FAQs
Where exactly is the Santa Ana Courthouse?
The Santa Ana courthouse is located at 211 W Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701
How do I reserve the Historic Courtroom for my wedding?
You can reserve the Historic Courtroom by calling the OC Parks Dept. at 714-973-6605
to check availability and make a reservation. There are no online reservation options.
How far in advance can I book my ceremony?
Reservations for the Old Orange County courthouse
It can be made up to 3 months in advance, but booking early is recommended, especially for significant dates like Valentine's Day.
How much does getting married in the Santa Ana Courthouse historic Courtroom cost?
- Marriage License: $61 (public), $66 (confidential)
- Civil Ceremony Fee: $28
- Historic Courtroom Rental: $600 rental fee
- $300 refundable security deposit
Do I need a marriage license before I reserve the courtroom?
No, you do not need the marriage license before reserving the courtroom, but you must have a valid license on the day of your ceremony.
Can I bring my own officiant?
Yes. When you rent the historic courtroom, you may bring your own legally authorized officiant or use a Deputy Commissioner of Civil Marriages from the Clerk-Recorder’s Office.
How many guests can I invite?
The courtroom can accommodate 75 guests.
Is photography allowed in the courtroom?
Yes, photography is permitted. Couples often bring professional photographers, and the courthouse’s vintage interior provides a beautiful backdrop. However, you must follow any on-site restrictions about flash or staging.
Can I decorate the courtroom?
Minimal decor is allowed. Items like flower bouquets are usually acceptable, but anything that could damage property or cause delays (e.g., confetti, candles) is generally not permitted.
Where do I park on the day of the wedding?
There is metered street parking and public parking behind the courthouse. There is a new lot across the street from the courthouse parking lot P4 630 North Broadway St. Santa Ana. Arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.
What do I need to bring on the day of the ceremony?
You’ll need: Valid photo IDs for both parties
Reservation confirmation, a form of payment to pay fees. A witness if you have a public marriage license.
Can I still get married at the courthouse without reserving the historic courtroom?
Yes, you can still get married at the Old Orange County Courthouse without reserving the Historic Courtroom. In this case, you’ll have a standard civil ceremony with a court-appointed officiant, and a ceremony room will be assigned to you. Most civil ceremonies take place in Rooms A or B on the first floor. Occasionally, ceremonies are held upstairs in the Historic Courtroom, but this is based on availability and the discretion of courthouse staff—specific requests for the upstairs courtroom are not accepted.
Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County Photographer
Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched
Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that.
Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past
25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft.