Beach Wedding Permits in Los Angeles & Malibu
Few settings are as romantic as the Pacific coast at golden hour, and for many couples a beach ceremony is the reason they choose Los Angeles. What surprises most of them is that a wedding on a public beach, even a very small one, often requires a permit and insurance.
The good news is that you don't need to learn the system. Here is what's involved, and why we take care of it for you.
Why Beach Permits Are Complicated
Los Angeles beaches are public, so any organized gathering, including a wedding, needs approval in advance. There is no single authority: beaches that sit side by side can belong to different agencies, each with its own application, fees, timeline and rules. Applications open only a few months before your date, and filing alone doesn't guarantee approval.
Why We Take Care of It for You
When you book with us, the permit is simply part of the planning. That means:
No research. We know which agency oversees each of our beach locations and what each permit requires, so you don't have to sort it out from another state or country.
No missed deadlines. We file as soon as the application window opens and follow it through to approval.
Insurance covered. Beach permits require liability insurance, and we carry it.
No surprise costs. Permit fees are included in the price of your package.
No interruptions. With an approved permit, you can say your vows without being asked to move.
What Is and Isn't Allowed
A few beach rules apply to every ceremony, and they're worth knowing as you plan:
No alcohol. Drinking is prohibited on Malibu beaches.
No dogs. With the exception of service dogs, dogs are not allowed on Malibu beaches. The only area with designated leashed areas is Leo Carrillo State Beach.
No fires. Fires and barbecues are not permitted on the beach.
The beach remains public. A permit approves your ceremony; it does not close the beach. Other visitors may be nearby. We know that privacy is valuable, and we recommend dates, times and locations to maximize your privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need a permit if it's just the two of us and your small team? On County-operated beaches, a small elopement ceremony with hired vendors is considered an organized event and the County requires a permit.
How far in advance should we book? The County accepts applications no earlier than 90 days before the date. To give you the best chance of securing your date, we recommend booking at least three months ahead, and we will apply as soon as the window opens. The permitting process is first come, first served, and one permit is granted per day per area.
Can we choose any beach in Los Angeles? Many beaches are possible, but each has its own agency and conditions. If you have a particular beach in mind, we are happy to confirm what it requires.
Will we have the beach to ourselves? The beach remains open to the public during your ceremony. We will recommend specific beaches, days, and times that will optimize your privacy.
Related guides: Getting a California Marriage License as an Out-of-Town Couple · Malibu Beach Elopements · Sunrise or Sunset: Choosing Your Ceremony Time