Planning to elope in Yosemite National Park but dont know how to get your Yosemite Elopement Permit? One of the first things you’ll need to know is the permit cost. Yosemite is a magical place for weddings and elopements, but like any national park, there are rules, fees, and timelines to follow.
As a Yosemite elopement photographer, I’ve guided countless couples through the permit process, helping them navigate costs, applications, and logistics so they can focus on what matters—saying “I do” surrounded by breathtaking views.
Yosemite Elopement Permit Costs: What You Need to Know
Special Use Permit Fee
- Cost: $150 per ceremony
- What it includes: Authorization for your ceremony at a designated Yosemite location for up to 2 hours
- Payment: Check or money order made payable to the National Park Service
- Non-refundable: Even if your ceremony is canceled, the fee is not returned
This fee applies to all ceremonies, whether it’s a small elopement with two people or a tiny wedding with a handful of guests.
Park Entry Fees
In addition to the permit, every vehicle entering Yosemite must pay an entrance fee:
- $35 per car for a 7-day pass
- $30 per motorcycle
- $20 per individual (on foot, bike, or bus)
💡 Pro Tip: If your guests are carpooling, only one car needs to pay the entrance fee—helping reduce costs for small weddings.
Additional Fees (If Applicable)
While most elopements are covered by the $150 SUP, certain situations may require extra fees:
- Resource monitoring: If your ceremony location requires park staff presence (usually for groups larger than 35), expect an additional $50/hour
- Special accommodations: Accessibility requests, additional permits for commercial filming, or drone use (drones are generally not allowed)
Why Planning Around Costs Matters
When budgeting for your Yosemite elopement, it’s important to consider all costs together:
- Permit fee: $150
- Park entry: $35 per vehicle
- Photographer & videographer (optional but highly recommended)
- Officiant, flowers, and personal touches
For most couples, a simple Yosemite elopement can range from $3,000–$8,000, depending on location, vendors, and travel.
Backlink Opportunities (Keep Traffic to Your Site)
- For detailed permit applications and rules, link directly to the official Yosemite National Park Weddings & Special Use Permits page
- Link to your own blog about “How to Apply for a Yosemite Wedding or Elopement Permit” for cross-reference:
- Learn the step-by-step permit process here → How to Apply for a Yosemite Wedding Permit
- Link to your elopement photography services page:
- Need help planning and capturing your Yosemite elopement? Check out my Yosemite photography services → Your Yosemite Elopement Photographer
How Hiring a Yosemite Elopement Photographer Saves You Money
Many couples think eloping in Yosemite is expensive, but hiring a photographer who knows the park can actually save you money:
- We know the locations and timing for sunrise/sunset, reducing trial and error.
- Permit guidance included—I help ensure all forms are submitted correctly the first time.
- No wasted time or extra fees—I help optimize transportation, timelines, and locations for the best photos with minimal stress.
FAQ: Yosemite Permit Costs
Q: Is the $150 fee per person?
A: No, it’s per event, regardless of group size (up to the maximum allowed at the location).
Q: Can I combine this fee with other national park visits?
A: The $150 permit is specific to your wedding/elopement. You still need standard park entry fees.
Q: Do I pay extra if I have a photographer?
A: No—your photographer is included in your SUP as long as you follow park rules. Only commercial filming or drone use requires additional permits.
Q: Can I get reimbursed if my ceremony is canceled due to weather?
A: No, the $150 Special Use Permit is non-refundable, so planning backup dates or locations is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the costs associated with a Yosemite elopement permit is key to planning your dream wedding without surprises. The $150 SUP fee, plus park entry and minimal extras, gives you access to some of the most iconic scenery in the world for your special day.
When you hire a Yosemite elopement photographer (like me 😉), you gain not only a professional capturing every moment but also someone who knows the park, the permit process, and the perfect locations for stunning, stress-free photos.
