If you’re planning to elope in Lake Tahoe, chances are you’ve been researching all the things. And the most common question people always ask is, “Do we need a permit to elope in Tahoe?”

The answer is… it depends. It depends on the exact stretch of land your boots are on. Rules shift from year to year and from one agency to the next. But don’t worry! You’re not meant to figure this all out on your own!

As a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner, I stay up to date on all the requirements so you don’t have to, and I will tell you all about them in this blog!

Why Elopement Permits Matter in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe isn’t just a pretty backdrop for your elopement. It is home to sacred land, delicate ecosystems, and a whole lot of people working hard to protect both. Permits help limit impact, keep visitors safe, and ensure these places stay wild and thriving for future couples to return and celebrate anniversaries someday.

In some instances, having a permit allows your ceremony to run smoothly, so you don’t get interrupted by rangers and can reserve the space for yourselves.

Emerald Bay Elopement Permits

Emerald Bay is one of the most popular and breathtaking places in Tahoe. And because it’s so special, it requires a ceremony permit issued by California State Parks. 

Ceremonies here accommodate up to 25 people total, including the two of you, me, your officiant, and your loved ones. The space isn’t exclusive, so you may share it with hikers or another ceremony nearby. The terrain also leans a little rugged, with dirt paths and natural stairs, so keep that in mind if accessibility is important for your day.

The ceremony permit is $500 and typically needs to be arranged about 30 days in advance. If you’re dreaming of portraits in the area without a full ceremony, there’s also a $100 photo-only permit handled through the CA Film Commission — something I happily take care of for my couples so you don’t have to lift a finger.

Official permit page for more details and application.

Sand Harbor Elopement Permit

Sand Harbor is one of the most picturesque spots on Lake Tahoe, located on the Nevada side. This area is renowned for its beaches, crystal-clear waters, and striking rock formations, providing a killer backdrop for your elopement.

All ceremonies, regardless of size, must take place only in the Group/Ramada area. That’s the only location where officiants are allowed. Booking the Ramada gives you access to that space, but not the surrounding beach, which is always first-come, first-served for public use. Asking beachgoers to move is prohibited (and they take that rule very seriously).

The ceremony permit here is $400, and parking fees apply separately. Summer days fill fast, with the lot often closing by 9:00 AM until late afternoon, so timing matters, especially if you want a calmer atmosphere for your vows. Photographers can work freely within the Ramada, but photographing elsewhere in the park requires a separate photography permit through the park office. 

Official reservation page for details. And here’s the link for the permit!

Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park Elopement Permit

Sugar Pine Point is a dream for couples who want something serene, spacious, and deeply connected to the lake. It has long stretches of shoreline, historic lodge vibes, and some of the quietest pockets of forest on the west shore. 

Ceremony permits are required here as well and are available from May through October. Depending on your guest count and the day of the week, fees vary — weekdays tend to be more accessible with fees starting at $1,000, while weekends (especially Saturdays) come with higher rates of $1,750+ and staffing requirements. The maximum ceremony time is 4 hours.

Parking is an additional $10 per vehicle, and they often provide a staff member to monitor if you’re bringing in vendors. 

This space is ideal for couples who want a full ceremony setup with a longer time window and a little more structure, without feeling crowded or rushed. Photo-only permits are also available through the CA Film Commission, which I handle for you. 

For permit info, visit the website or contact the Special Event Coordinator at (530) 525-5060. 

2027 permits open online Saturday, June 6th, 2026 at 5:00am PST. The 2026 permits may be fully booked.

Elopement Permits for National Forest Land

Tahoe National Forest and surrounding public lands offer some of the area’s most peaceful, tucked-away ceremony spots, and many of them don’t require a ceremony permit at all.

Small, informal elopements without a structured setup generally don’t need permits here. Portrait sessions are usually allowed without additional paperwork, too. That said, commercial photography rules can shift from year to year, especially as agencies navigate staffing changes, so we always confirm in advance.

This is also where my experience as a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner comes in handy. Some of these gorgeous spots aren’t even marked on maps, and I guide couples to them while ensuring everything stays legal and aligned with Leave No Trace principles.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Locations That Usually Don’t Require a Permit

As I mentioned above, National Forests and public lands usually don’t require permits. And there are countless little pockets around the lake, like forest clearings, hidden beaches, shoreline pull-offs, and meadows, that don’t fall under strict state park rules.

These locations can be perfect if you’re dreaming of something private and spontaneous, and you’re not after a “popular” location. I keep a curated list of these places specifically for my couples!

You also normally don’t need a permit for portrait-only sessions in many areas, however, I always double-check whether a photography permit is required before our date.

Common Permit Mistakes

Couples are often surprised by how easy it is to accidentally choose a spot that has hidden restrictions, like assuming you can hold a ceremony on any stretch of beach, or thinking a permit covers the entire park when it only covers one section. 

Timing can also be tricky, especially in summer when parking becomes its own adventure. Since parking isn’t automatically included when you book your elopement permit, these logistics are always something you need to consider, especially if you’re including guests.

And, finally, the most common mistake is waiting too long to apply. Elopement permits can go super quickly during peak season and for popular locations, so you should apply as soon as you’ve decided on the date and the location.

When you book me as your Lake Tahoe elopement photographer, I build all of this into the planning process so there are no surprises. From permits to parking to timing your ceremony with the best possible light, I help you create a day that feels smooth, intentional, and effortless! 

Let’s Navigate Planning Your Lake Tahoe Elopement Together

Your elopement deserves to feel intentional, unhurried, and deeply meaningful, without all the unnecessary worries about the logistics and bureaucracy. When we work together, I help you build a day that honors your vows, respects the land, and gives you room to breathe, laugh, explore, and just be together.

Ready to dream up your Lake Tahoe elopement experience? Reach out to me here!

And if you are planning a Lake Tahoe elopement and want more information and inspiration, you will definitely enjoy this guide!