How to Get Married in Utah’s National Parks: A Step-by-Step Guide to Permits, Locations, and Rules
Planning a wedding in a national park requires an officiant who understands the unique regulations and logistics of outdoor ceremonies. At LoveStories, we specialize in crafting meaningful, personalized ceremonies that honor both your love story and the breathtaking landscapes of Utah’s national parks.
As an officiant licensed in all 50 states, we can legally perform weddings anywhere in Utah’s national and state parks—or any other scenic destination you have in mind. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement at Dead Horse Point, a ceremony beneath the towering cliffs of Zion, or a romantic exchange of vows in Arches, we ensure your experience is seamless, stress-free, and truly unforgettable.
Below is a step-by-step guide to assist couples in organizing their wedding in some of Utah's most iconic national parks and nearby areas.
1. Choose Your Desired National Park
Utah and its neighboring regions boast several stunning national parks suitable for weddings:
Arches National Park
Zion National Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
Grand Canyon National Park (nearby in Arizona)
2. Understand Each Park's Regulations and Permit Requirements
Each park has distinct rules and requires a Special Use Permit (SUP) for wedding ceremonies. Below is a summary of the requirements for each park:
Arches National Park
Permit Requirement: A Special Use Permit is mandatory for all wedding ceremonies.
Application Fee: $185.
Application Process: Submit a completed NPS Form 10-930s along with payment confirmation via Pay.gov.
Additional Regulations:
All vehicles must be parked in designated areas; carpooling is recommended.
Pets are typically not allowed at ceremony sites.
Operating drones is prohibited.
Permits are issued for a one-hour duration.
Groups larger than 25 participants must create a parking plan.
Contact Information:
Mailing Address: PO Box 907, Moab, UT 84532
Phone: 435-719-2299
Website: Arches National Park Weddings
Zion National Park
Permit Requirement: A Special Use Permit is required for all wedding ceremonies, elopements, or vow renewals, regardless of group size.
Application Fee: $100.
Application Process: Applications must be submitted at least three weeks in advance.
Additional Regulations:
Specific locations are designated for ceremonies.
Restrictions on group sizes and equipment apply.
Contact Information:
Mailing Address: Zion National Park, 1 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, UT 84767
Phone: 435-772-3256
Website: Zion National Park Weddings
Capitol Reef National Park
Permit Requirement: A Special Use Permit is required for wedding ceremonies.
Application Process: Ceremonies may be scheduled up to one year in advance and no later than seven days prior to the event.
Additional Regulations:
Group sizes and locations are limited.
Activities must not interfere with normal visitor use.
Equipment such as tents, carpets, and generators are prohibited.
Contact Information:
Dead Horse Point State Park
Permit Requirement: All weddings require a Special Use Permit.
Application Process: Applications are accepted from one month to 18 months in advance.
Additional Regulations:
Multiple ceremony sites are available, accommodating groups ranging from fewer than five to up to 100 people.
Spring and fall dates are popular and fill up fast; applications for Memorial Day Weekend will not be approved due to high visitation.
Contact Information:
Assistant Park Manager Email: ecappa@utah.gov
Website: Dead Horse Point State Park Weddings
Grand Canyon National Park
Permit Requirement: A Special Use Permit is required for all wedding ceremonies, regardless of size.
Application Process: Weddings may be scheduled up to one year in advance.
Additional Regulations:
Specific locations are designated for ceremonies.
Permits (except for Shoshone Point) are issued for a two-hour block of time; additional time incurs extra charges.
An Arizona marriage license is required.
Contact Information:
Phone: 928-638-7888
Website: Grand Canyon National Park Weddings
3. Apply for the Special Use Permit
Timing: Submit your application as early as possible, adhering to each park's specific timeline requirements.
Documentation: Ensure all required forms are completed accurately and include any necessary supporting documents.
Fees: Be prepared to pay the non-refundable application fee as specified by each park.
4. Obtain the Appropriate Marriage License
Utah Parks: Secure a Utah marriage license from any county clerk's office in the state. Licenses are valid immediately upon issuance and for 30 days.
Grand Canyon National Park: Obtain an Arizona marriage license, as the park is located within Coconino County, Arizona.
5. Plan the Ceremony Logistics
Guest Accommodations: Be mindful of group size limitations and parking restrictions; carpooling is often encouraged or required.
Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of chosen locations for all attendees.
Equipment and Decorations: Adhere to each park's regulations regarding permissible items; many parks prohibit amplified sound, decorations, and the throwing of materials like rice or flower petals.
6. Final Preparations
Weather Considerations: Monitor weather forecasts leading up to the event and have contingency plans in place.
Leave No Trace: Commit to preserving the natural beauty of the park by following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring all participants respect park regulations and the environment.
By following these steps and carefully adhering to each park's specific guidelines, couples can enjoy a beautiful and compliant wedding ceremony amidst the stunning backdrops of Utah's national parks and nearby areas.
