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How to Elope in Lake Tahoe

I’m Kristin, a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe is simpler than most couples expect, but there are a few location specific details to know before you start planning.

This page walks you through permits, ceremony locations, and Lake Tahoe planning basics so you can elope with confidence, without the overwhelm.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe is one of the most scenic ways to get married—and it’s more approachable than many couples expect.

Instead of traditional venues, eloping in Tahoe is about choosing the right location, understanding a few land-use rules, and planning around permits, timing, and logistics. Once those pieces are in place, the experience feels relaxed, intentional, and deeply meaningful.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe:
What You Need to Know


Yes — eloping in Lake Tahoe is completely legal.

An elopement holds the same legal weight as a traditional wedding. As long as you obtain a valid marriage license and follow the requirements for the specific location you choose, you’ll be legally married.

Because Lake Tahoe includes a mix of state parks, beaches, and public lands, some ceremony locations require permits—even for small, just-the-two-of-you ceremonies. The good news? The process is usually straightforward, and once approved, you’re free to say your vows surrounded by alpine lakes, mountains, and wide-open views.

Is Eloping Legal in Lake Tahoe?

Eloping in Lake Tahoe doesn’t mean skipping the important parts—
it simply means choosing a more intentional, intimate way to get married.

I’m a Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner for couples who want a wedding day that feels intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

I don’t just show up with a camera, I help you plan your elopement from the beginning. From talking through locations and logistics to building a timeline that flows, I’m there to guide you, cheer you on, fix your dress, and keep the day feeling calm and easy.

I care about what lights you two up and what makes your connection yours, and I help create an elopement day that feels like it was made just for you.

I specialize in elopements across Lake Tahoe and California, and help couples navigate the planning process without it feeling overwhelming.

Hey, I'm Kristin!

"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin

Marriage License Requirements for Eloping in Lake Tahoe

Where to Get a Marriage License in California

To elope in Lake Tahoe, you’ll need a valid California marriage license issued by any California county clerk.

You can apply for your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in California, no matter where in Lake Tahoe your ceremony takes place.

Many counties offer online applications and appointment scheduling, which makes this especially easy for couples traveling in from out of state. You’ll just want to plan this step within your travel timeline so everything stays stress-free.

How Long a California Marriage License Is Valid

A California marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date it’s issued.

This means your Lake Tahoe elopement must take place within that 90-day window. If you’re planning travel, lodging, or permits around a specific date, it’s best to time your license appointment accordingly.

Do You Need to Be a California Resident?

No — you do not need to live in California to elope in Lake Tahoe.

Out-of-state and international couples can legally get married in California as long as they obtain a valid marriage license and follow the required steps.

Lake Tahoe straddles California and Nevada, so be sure to know your ceremony location first.

Marriage License Requirements for Eloping in Lake Tahoe (Nevada side)

If you’re eloping on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, you’ll need a Nevada marriage license issued by a Nevada county clerk.

Most Lake Tahoe ceremonies on the Nevada side fall within Washoe County (Incline Village, Crystal Bay) or Douglas County (Stateline, Zephyr Cove).

Where to Get a Marriage License in Nevada

You must apply for your marriage license in person at a Nevada county clerk’s office.

  • Washoe County Clerk (Reno)
  • Douglas County Clerk (Minden)

Appointments are typically quick and straightforward, and many couples choose to schedule this step a day or two before their elopement to keep things simple.

How Long a Nevada Marriage License Is Valid

A Nevada marriage license is valid for one year from the date it’s issued.

That flexibility makes Nevada a great option if you’re planning your elopement well in advance or traveling from out of state.

Do You Need to Be a Nevada Resident?

No — you do not need to be a Nevada resident to elope on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe.

Out-of-state and international couples can legally get married in Nevada as long as they obtain a valid marriage license and follow the required steps.

Do You Need an Officiant or Witnesses to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

Witness Requirements for Eloping in Lake Tahoe

Your witness requirements depend on whether you apply for a public or confidential California marriage license:

  • Public marriage license: Requires one witness
  • Confidential marriage license: Requires no witnesses

A confidential marriage license is available to couples who are already living together and keeps your marriage record private. Many couples choose this option if they want a truly just-the-two-of-them Yosemite elopement.

Who Can Officiate an Elopement in Lake Tahoe?

Your officiant must be legally authorized in California. This can include:
  • A professional officiant
  • A religious officiant
  • A friend or family member who becomes legally ordained
  • A photographer or planner who is legally ordained

As long as your officiant is properly ordained and your paperwork is completed correctly, your Lake Tahoe elopement will be fully legal.
Yes — eloping in Lake Tahoe follows California marriage laws, which means an officiant is required, and witness requirements depend on the type of marriage license you choose.

Eloping in Lake Tahoe follows California marriage laws, which means an officiant is required.

Where Can You Elope in Lake Tahoe?

One of the biggest reasons couples choose Lake Tahoe for their elopement is the variety of landscapes.

Unlike national parks, Lake Tahoe is made up of state parks, beaches, forests, viewpoints, and public lands across both California and Nevada. Instead of traditional venues, elopements take place in outdoor locations that allow small ceremonies with the proper permits.

  • Scenic lakefront beaches
  • Forest and meadow locations
  • Mountain viewpoints and overlooks
  • State parks and recreation areas
  • Select trail or trail-adjacent locations
Permit requirements vary depending on the exact location and which agency manages the land. Some areas require permits, while others do not—but choosing the right spot (and timing) is key.

This is where planning ahead really matters, and it’s something I help couples navigate so they can focus on the experience instead of the logistics.

You Can Elope in Lake Tahoe At:

Lake Tahoe has a variety of landscapes all within a relatively small area.

Many couples choose Lake Tahoe elopement locations that feel peaceful, scenic, and immersed in nature—focusing less on décor and more on being fully present together in a beautiful place.

Sometimes — it depends on where your ceremony takes place.

Do You Need a Permit to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe is made up of state parks, beaches, and public lands across both California and Nevada. Some locations require permits for elopements, while others do not.

Lake Tahoe Elopement Permits May Be Required For:

  • State parks and protected recreation areas
  • Certain lakefront beaches
  • Popular viewpoints or high-traffic locations

Permit requirements aren’t always based on guest count—even just-the-two-of-you elopements may still need permission depending on the location.

The good news? Most Lake Tahoe permits are straightforward. Once approved, you’ll know exactly where and when your ceremony can take place, which keeps the day relaxed and stress-free.

Lake Tahoe is made up of state parks, beaches, and public lands across both California and Nevada. 

This is something I help couples navigate early so there are no surprises later.

When Is the Best Time to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

Best Seasons for Eloping in Lake Tahoe

  • Spring (April–June):
    Melting snow, quieter trails, and fresh alpine scenery. Some higher-elevation areas may still have snow or limited access early in the season.
  • Summer (July–September):
    Warm weather, clear lake views, and the most location access—but also the busiest time of year. Early mornings and weekdays are best for privacy.
  • Fall (October–November):
    Fewer crowds, crisp air, and golden tones in the trees. Weather can change quickly, and some services or roads may begin to close.
  • Winter (December–March):
    Snowy landscapes and a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. Access is more limited, and winter conditions require flexibility and planning.

Weather Considerations in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe’s weather can vary widely by season, elevation, and location around the lake. Snow, wind, and road conditions all play a role in choosing the right ceremony spot.

Thoughtful planning and having a flexible backup plan helps ensure your elopement feels relaxed, safe, and aligned with the experience you’re dreaming of.
There’s no single “best” time to elope in Lake Tahoe. The right season depends on the experience you want, your comfort with weather changes, and whether you’re hoping for snow, summer lake views, or fall color.

Each season in Lake Tahoe offers a completely different feel, which is part of what makes it such a great place to elope.
  • Spring (April–June):
Snowmelt, dramatic waterfalls, fewer crowds early in the season. Some higher-elevation areas and roads may still be closed depending on snowpack.

  • Summer (July–September):
Full park access, warm days, alpine locations open — but also the busiest time of year. Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience.

  • Fall (October–November):
Fewer crowds, crisp air, golden tones in the meadows. Some services and roads begin to close, and weather can shift quickly.

  • Winter (December–March):
Snowy landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and a truly intimate feel. Access is limited to lower elevations, and winter conditions require flexibility and planning.

What Does an Elopement Day Look Like in Lake Tahoe?

Instead of one fixed location, many couples:
  • Get ready slowly and enjoy a quiet, intentional morning
  • Explore one or more scenic locations within the park
  • Exchange vows in a peaceful, designated ceremony spot
  • Take time to soak it all in — no rushing
  • Celebrate with a toast, picnic, or sunset moment

Elopements aren’t rushed.
The goal is to create space for connection, presence, and meaning.



Elopement days in Lake Tahoe are typically relaxed, flexible, and centered around the experience—not a strict timeline.

Instead of being tied to one venue, Lake Tahoe elopements are designed to flow with the day, the light, and the landscape.

How to Start Planning Your Lake Tahoe Elopement

From There, Most Couples:
  • Choose a general area or type of scenery around Lake Tahoe
  • Get familiar with marriage license requirements (California or Nevada)
  • Understand if permits are needed for their chosen location
  • Build a relaxed timeline that leaves room to slow down and enjoy the day

You don’t need to have every detail figured out to begin —
just a direction.



The best way to start planning a Lake Tahoe elopement is by focusing on how you want your day to feel.

Tahoe offers a lot of flexibility, which means you can start with a general vision and build from there.

Ready to Elope in Lake Tahoe?

If Lake Tahoe feels like the right place to get married and you want guidance through the process, having someone who truly understands Tahoe elopements can make everything feel a lot easier.

From choosing the right ceremony location and navigating permits (California or Nevada) to creating a relaxed timeline and guiding the flow of the day, support allows you to focus on what actually matters—the two of you and the experience you’re creating together.

So You're Ready to Elope in Lake Tahoe,
Now Let’s Make It Easy

You understand the process of what it takes to elope in Lake Tahoe, the next step is having someone in your corner to help make it all feel simple and stress-free.


This isn’t just photography.
this an experience built around the two of you!

The laughter, the quiet moments, the adventure
are captured beautifully and wrapped in a stress-free,
red-carpet process from start to finish.

Planning Support: Location scouting, permits, timelines, vendor recommendations — I handle all the behind-the-scenes details so you can focus on what matters most: each other.

Creative Touches: From faux florals and color palettes to the tiny details that make your day look and feel cohesive, I’ll help design your setup so it’s both beautiful and stress-free.

Faux Florals: Custom faux florals are included with every elopement. I’ll help you choose a bouquet and boutonnière that match your colors, location, and vibe — no wilting, no stress, and they photograph beautifully in every season.

Picnic, Cake, & Toast: Celebrate your “just married” moment with a cozy picnic setup, a mini cake, and a bubbly toast (non-alcoholic options available!). It’s the perfect way to slow down and take it all in together.

Two Photographers (Add-on): When you want full coverage, my husband Rick joins me — capturing your day from every angle so nothing goes unseen.

Day-Of Coordination: I’ll keep your day running smoothly from start to finish so you don’t have to think twice about what’s next.

Sneak Peeks & Final Gallery: A handful of teasers within 24 hours (because I know you’ll be dying to relive it), and your full gallery delivered within 45 days — filled with images that bring it all rushing back.

the experience

Take a peek at what I offer to make your elopement experience easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.

"Kristin we cannot thank you enough! It was truly just the most perfect day, thank you for all your hard work making everything come together. You made it so EASY and the ability to feel relaxed and just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift. We are so happy, thank you so much!" - Jaime & Cody

"The ability to feel relaxed & just be able to enjoy every second of our wedding day is such a gift."

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Kristin Smith Photography

Kristin is a Northern California elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in places like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite and epic California locations.

From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.

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