Wedding Ceremonies at Lake Tahoe
As an ordained minister performing marriages in the Reno-Tahoe area for over a decade, one of my favorite places to officiate a wedding is at Lake Tahoe. 
The natural beauty of Lake Tahoe provides a stunning backdrop for a spiritual outdoor ceremony you will remember your entire lives. However, there are some things to remember when planning a Lake Tahoe wedding:
- Weather cannot always be counted upon to recognize that this is your special day! Make sure to have an alternate plan in case one of the summer storms decides to show up! I have officiated at weddings in the middle of summer when an unexpected downpour not only dampened the spirits of the bride and groom, but the guests as well.
- If you plan to be married anywhere on a beach or around the surrounding area of the Tahoe Basin, a permit is required. This is easily obtained by contacting the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Forest Supervisor's Office (530) 543-2600. It is recommended that you secure your permit at least six months in advance of your wedding. If you are going to be married at one of the resorts or restaurants, or private property, you will not need to secure a permit.
- Lake Tahoe occupies both California and Nevada. You will need to secure a marriage license from the state that represents the part of the lake you have chosen.
Nevada and California Requirements:
- Must be 18 or over, and must both appear before the County Clerk. (males and females between 16 & 18 years old can obtain marriage licenses with their parent’ consent. Consent is given in person, or in writing (notorized) to the County Clerk)
- Legal identification with proof of birth date required (i.e. driver’s license, certified copy of birth certificate, Resident Alien card, Military ID or a passport.
- No blood test or waiting period required
- You do not need to be a resident
- Marriage license information for Reno area: (775) 328-3274
- Marriage license information for North Lake Tahoe 1-800-468-2463
- California license fee varies by county. You may call any County Clerk’s office for information.
