How to Apply for a Yosemite Wedding Permit: Step-by-Step (Updated for 2026)
My 50 person wedding ceremony at Glacier Point Amphitheater in the summer
Planning an elopement in Yosemite National Park? One of the essential steps to make your dream day official is securing a wedding permit! I know it might seem daunting and confusing to get done, but don’t worry - the process is super easy, and I’m here to guide you through it! As a local Yosemite National Park wedding photographer with over a decade of experience, I’ve helped many couples navigate this process, so let’s dive in!
Updated for 2026 permit requirements:
Step 1: Download the Application
The wedding permit application can be found on the official Yosemite National Park website. Look for the "Special Use Permit Application for Weddings and Ceremonies." Download and print the form to get started.
Step 2: Fill Out the Basics
The first section of the form asks for your personal details:
Name(s): Include both partners’ full legal names.
Social Security - A social security ( bride or grooms) must be written in this section or the permit will be denied. If you don’t have a Social Security you will need to call +1 209- 379-1434.
Contact Information: Provide an email and phone number where the park office can easily reach you.
Event Date and Time: Be specific! Popular dates fill up quickly, so have a backup date in case your first choice isn’t available. I always recommend sunrise or an early morning if available!
Step 3: Description of Proposed Activity
This is where you’ll need to write what you plan on doing and why you’re asking for a permit.
For example, “We plan to have a small, intimate elopement ceremony at [preferred location, e.g., Taft Point or Glacier Point], followed by portraits at scenic locations around Yosemite National Park. Our group will consist of [number] people, including the couple, officiant, photographer, and our family. We aim to keep the event short, minimal and respectful of the park's natural environment.”
Step 4: Specify the Ceremony Location
Yosemite is full of stunning ceremony locations like Glacier Point, Taft Point, Swinging Bridge, Sentinel Beach, Lower Yosemite Falls, Tenaya Lake, etc, however If you’re planning on having more than 11 guest, unfortunately (not really unfortunately because honestly any location in Yosemite is jaw-dropping) you’ll be limited to certain location.
Click here to view a list of where you can elope!
Want to dive deeper into these locations? Check out my blog post here! 15 Epic Yosemite Wedding Venues and Ceremony Spots You’ll Love
Be sure to include your preferred location on the form, as well as an alternate date. If you’re unsure where to elope, book me and I’m happy to help you scout and choose the perfect spot where you say “I Do” as your trusted Yosemite wedding photographer! ;) okay okay, enough of me, next step!
Step 5: Participants, Vehicles, & Equipment
Specify how many guests you’ll have (including vendors like your photographer and officiant) to ensure compliance with park guidelines.
If you are bringing vehicles, Yosemite requires a parking plan. For example, if you’re getting married at Swinging Bridge or Glacier Point and plan to bring four vehicles, you can attach a document that states:
"Our group will bring four vehicles, which will be parked at designated parking areas for Swinging Bridge. We will ensure all vehicles comply with park guidelines and are parked responsibly to avoid disrupting other visitors."
Including this information ensures the park staff understands your plans and helps avoid any parking-related issues on your wedding day!
If the application asks for a list of equipment, and you won’t be bringing any, simply state:
"No equipment will be brought to the ceremony or other activities."
This ensures clarity and avoids unnecessary follow-up questions from the park.
Step 6: Individual in charge
This could be you, your fiancé or a family member that will be attending the wedding ceremony!
Step 7: Activity Questions
For the question "Is this an exercise of First Amendment Rights?" you would likely answer "No," unless you're engaging in an activity specifically related to speech, assembly, or religion (such as a protest, demonstration, or religious gathering).
For the question "Have you visited the requested area?" you would answer "Yes" if you've already been to the area you're requesting the permit for, or "No" if you haven't. If you're familiar with the area, it would be accurate to answer "Yes."
Step 8: Provide Payment Information
There’s a non-refundable application fee ( $150, unless you need a park ranger to monitor, it will be an extra $50. This is usually for larger weddings). Include your payment details on the form to complete your submission. Double-check the fee amount on the Yosemite website, as it may vary. Yosemite National Park only accepts payments in the form of a cashier’s check, money order or personal check made payable to the National Park Service.
Step 9: Submit Your Application
Once your application is completed, print it out and mail it to the park’s Special Use Permit Office, which is
Postal mail:
Special Park Uses/Film and Weddings
Yosemite National Park, National Park Service
P.O. Box 700
El Portal, CA 95318
Overnight (FedEx/UPS):
Special Park Uses/Film & Weddings
Yosemite National Park
5083 Foresta Rd
El Portal, CA 95318
Make sure the check and application are in the same envelope! The park will confirm receipt and let you know if they need additional information. You can also call the Special Park Uses office at 209/379-1434 or by emailto check the status of your permit. I would give them at least a few days before you call if you don’t hear anything back within a week or so!
Step 10: Await Approval
After submitting your application, it may take a few weeks to process, so plan ahead. During this wait, you can reach out to your dream vendors! When your request is approved, a permit containing applicable terms and conditions will be sent you. The permit must be signed by the responsible person and returned to the park for final approval by the Park Superintendent before the permitted activity may begin. Keep a copy of your permit with you on your wedding day - park rangers may ask to see it.
Bonus Tip: Simplify with the Right Vendors
Many local officiants and vendors familiar with Yosemite (aka me!) can help guide you through this process and your officiant can even file your marriage paperwork afterwards! If you book me as your Yosemite photographer, I can connect you with the best local vendors to make your day stress-free!
FAQ’s for a yosemite wedding
1. When should we apply for a wedding permit?
As soon as they’re released! These permits are super popular. Especially for those dreamy summer weekends and they tend to get booked fast!
Here’s the scoop on availability:
May – October: 60 permits per month
November – April: 40 permits per month
You can apply exactly one year in advance. For example, if you’re eyeing a June 2027 date, you can submit your application on June 1, 2026. Since it’s first-come, first-served, I recommend applying as early as possible to make sure you secure your favorite spot!
2. Why does a Wedding Permit in Yosemite Matter?
Having a permit not only ensures you’re following park regulations but also helps preserve Yosemite’s natural beauty for future generations. It’s a small step that makes a big impact!
Eloping in Yosemite is truly a magical experience, and completing this permit is just one step closer to saying “I do” surrounded by breathtaking views. If you have any questions about the process or need recommendations, feel free to reach out. I’m here to make your Yosemite elopement unforgettable!
3. What restrictions are in Yosemite National Park?
No ceremony sites allow dogs, and no trails allow dogs
Fireworks of any kind are not allowed including sparklers and smoke bombs
All sites are restricted to at least 50 people (except the Yosemite Chapel), some are restricted to 10 or less including a photographer and officiant
No throwing flower petals, rice, confetti, or leaving behind any other trash or waste of any kind including champagne corks
Some sites limit the amount of cars allowed at the site
No blocking off trails or ceremony sites- the permit doesn’t reserve an area exclusively for you and your party
No amplified music or mics
No decorations, chairs, tables, tents, etc. are allowed to be set up
No drones
No receptions at ceremony sites
No ceremonies around the base of sequoia trees
Ready to Plan Your Stress-Free Yosemite Elopement?
Navigating permits and park rules can be tricky, but you don't have to do it alone. Let’s chat about capturing your 'I do's' in the heart of the Yosemite National Park
To make it official! Fill out my Inquiry Form to get started!
Find more wedding inspiration on my Yosemite Wedding Photos Board on Pinterest. You can also check out and follow my Instagram (@priscillabanphoto) for updated wedding inspo, dress and guest attire inspo, and behind-the-scenes into my life as a National Park Photographer!
