Dreaming of an intimate, no-fuss wedding in the heart of Chicago? City Hall offers everything you love in a ceremony—official, elegant, and totally unique—without the elaborate planning or hefty price tag. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make it all happen (plus insider tips from my experience as a Chicago elopement photographer).
Why Chicago City Hall?
Efficient & Affordable: You can go from planning to “I do” in just a few days, with minimal cost and time.
Timeless Backdrop: The grand architecture and marble interiors are perfect for classic wedding photos.
Personal & Meaningful: Skip the traditional guest list and focus on a ceremony that’s truly about you two—no fluff, no stress.
Quick FAQs at a Glance
How much does it cost to get married at Chicago City Hall?
$10 cash-only fee for the ceremony itself.
$60 for the marriage license (paid at the County Clerk’s office).
How many guests can we bring?
Up to 12 guests (including kids and photographer).
Keep in mind—ceremony space is cozy, so smaller is better.
When can we have the ceremony?
Tuesday–Friday: 9:00–11:30 AM and 2:00–3:15 PM
Saturday (by appointment only): 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Do we need a witness?
Nope! The judge and clerk handle everything.
Can we bring a photographer?
Absolutely—and you should. Trust me, these moments are worth capturing.
The Legal Stuff: How to Get Your Marriage License in Cook County
To legally get married in Cook County (where Chicago is located), both of you must go together to a Cook County Clerk’s office to apply for your marriage license. You’ll need:
A valid, government-issued photo ID; and
A $60 license fee (cash, card, or money order)
If you’re already in Chicago, the most convenient location is: 119 W. Randolph St. — Room 120 (First Floor) or you can enter on 116 N. Clark Street and then go to room 120.
*Heads up: This building takes up a full city block, with entrances on every side. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself walking around it — it’s massive.
Important note on timing: They’re strict about their hours. Don’t show up five minutes before closing and expect to be helped — they won’t bend the rules.
Key Things to Know:
You’ll receive your marriage license the same day you apply.
But you must wait at least one day before your ceremony — Illinois requires a 24-hour waiting period.
Your license is valid for 60 days and can only be used within Cook County.
No witnesses are needed in Illinois!
Chicago City Hall Ceremony Logistics
Once you have your marriage license, it’s time to plan your ceremony. Here’s everything you need to know.
Where:
Marriage Court — 119 W. Randolph Street, Lower Level (Chicago City Hall)z
When You Can Get Married:
Monday: Zoom Ceremonies — Appointment Only
Tuesday–Friday: 9:00–11:30 AM and 2:00–3:30 PM Walk-ins welcome — no appointment required First come, first served within those timeframes
Saturday: In-person — Appointment Only 9:00 AM–12:00 PM To schedule an appointment, call 312-603-5660.
Important Saturday Note: On Saturdays, you must enter through 116 N. Clark Street — the Randolph Street entrance is closed.
What It Costs: $10 cash-only fee, paid right before your ceremony
How Many Guests Can You Bring?
You’re allowed up to 12 total guests — including your photographer.
The courtroom is small, so plan for a close-knit group.
What to Expect on Saturdays:
Before I became a full-time wedding photographer, I worked as a legal secretary — and we often called Saturday ceremonies a “cattle call.”
Even though you’ll receive an appointment time (like 9:00 AM or 9:30 AM), it still works on a first come, first served basis. When you arrive, you’ll check in with the security guard, who will confirm your names and guest count. After that, you’ll wait for your turn.
Tip: If you’re getting married on a weekday, arriving early within the posted timeframes will help you avoid long waits and make your experience smoother.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
City Hall Closures: Marriage Court is closed on Sundays and all court-observed holidays.
While most are standard — like Memorial Day, Christmas, and the Fourth of July — some lesser-known ones, like Casimir Pulaski Day, might catch you off guard.
Always check the official court holiday calendar before you choose your date.
You can view it on the Cook County Clerk’s website.
What to Expect with Wait Times
Wait times vary based on the day, season, and the number of judges performing ceremonies. Here’s a general breakdown:
Friday Afternoons & Saturday Mornings: Plan for a 45-minute to 1-hour wait These are the busiest times, especially if there are fewer judges scheduled (usually between one and three).
Tuesday–Thursday: Typically a 15–20 minute wait These midweek days tend to be quieter and quicker.
The Waiting Room Experience
There is a designated waiting area, but on busy days, the line can spill into the hallway.
Fridays and Saturdays feel especially crowded, often because many couples bring large groups. Sometimes two-thirds of the people waiting are guests, which makes the space feel packed.
On popular days — like Valentine’s Day — the court may bring in extra judges to help move things along.
Tip: Give yourself buffer time, bring water, and stay flexible if you’re planning post-ceremony photos or celebrations.
