How to Get a Beach Wedding Permit in St. Augustine, FL (And What to Expect)
Imagine saying “I do” on the historic shores of St. Augustine, Florida—the ocean breeze in your hair and the sun setting behind you. It’s no surprise that St. Augustine is one of the most sought-after beach wedding destinations in the country. But before you can celebrate seaside, there’s one important step: securing your beach wedding permit.
Since 2006, over 3,500 couples have said yes to forever with Sun & Sea Beach Weddings. Our team makes the beach wedding permit process in St. Augustine smooth, so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love.
Key Takeaways
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Understand local rules and regulations for beach weddings in St. Augustine, FL.
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Learn how to apply for the right permit—city, county, or state.
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Discover timelines, fees, and restrictions before planning your big day.
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See how Sun & Sea Beach Weddings makes the process stress-free and beautiful.
Why St. Augustine is Perfect for a Beach Wedding
Known for its charming history and natural coastal beauty, St. Augustine offers a romantic setting for couples seeking a unique Florida beach wedding. Whether you want a small elopement or a larger celebration, you’ll find scenic locations and welcoming vibes throughout the area.
Top Beach Wedding Locations in St. Augustine, FL
When planning your ceremony, consider these popular spots:
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St. Augustine Beach: Wide sands and accessibility make this a favorite for families and larger events.
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Vilano Beach: Quieter and more secluded—perfect for intimate weddings.
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Anastasia State Park: A serene, nature-focused location within a protected ecosystem.
Each location may require different permits depending on jurisdiction—more on that below.
Best Time of Year for a Beach Wedding in St. Augustine
Florida’s sunny climate is ideal year-round, but the best seasons for a beach wedding in St. Augustine are:
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Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and lighter tourist traffic.
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Fall (September–November): Warm but comfortable, with gorgeous evening light.
These windows are also ideal for avoiding summer storms and peak crowds.
Understanding Beach Wedding Permit Requirements in St. Augustine, FL
City, County, or State? Know Your Beach
St. Augustine’s beaches fall under three authorities:
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City Beaches (like St. Augustine Beach): Apply through the City of St. Augustine Beach.
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County Beaches (like Vilano): Permits issued by St. Johns County.
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State Parks (like Anastasia): Require coordination with Florida’s State Park Service.
Knowing the correct jurisdiction helps you get the right permit and avoid surprises.
Permit Costs for St. Augustine Beach Weddings
Permit fees vary based on location and guest count:
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City/County Fees: Typically range from $100–$250.
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State Park Weddings: May incur higher fees (up to $500) depending on event size and setup.
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Additional costs: May apply for setup, cleanup, or security services.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Beach Wedding Permit?
Here’s a general timeline:
| Jurisdiction | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| City of St. Augustine Beach | 2–4 weeks |
| St. Johns County Beaches | 4–6 weeks |
| Anastasia State Park | 6–8 weeks |
Pro tip: Apply at least 30–60 days in advance to secure your preferred date and avoid stress.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Beach Wedding Permit
Documents You’ll Need:
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Completed permit application
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Government-issued IDs
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Description of setup (chairs, arches, guest count)
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Permit fee payment
Where to Apply:
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Online: Visit the City of St. Augustine or St. Johns County website.
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In Person: Visit the local Parks and Recreation Department for personalized help.
Local Rules & Regulations to Know
Time & Noise Limits:
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Ceremonies allowed between 8 AM and sunset
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No amplified sound after dusk
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Keep music at a respectful volume
Decoration Guidelines:
| Item | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Floral Arrangements | ✅ | Must be biodegradable |
| Candles/Open Flame | ❌ | Fire hazard |
| Confetti/Rice | ❌ | Not allowed due to environmental impact |
Environmental Protections:
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Sea Turtle Nesting Season: May–October — restrictions apply
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Dune Protection: Keep all setups at least 15 feet from dune lines
Don’t Forget: Other Permits You Might Need
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Marriage License: Apply at any Florida county clerk office; no waiting period for out-of-state couples.
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Alcohol Permit: Required for serving alcohol in most beach areas.
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Sound Permit: If using amplified music.
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Parking/Shuttle Permits: For events with larger guest counts.
Let Sun & Sea Beach Weddings Handle the Details
Planning a wedding is enough work—let us take care of the permits. At Sun & Sea Beach Weddings, we handle all logistics, including permits, setup, decor, and more.
All-Inclusive Packages:
Choose from simple elopement packages to full-scale beach wedding ceremonies, all designed with elegance and ease.
Custom Decor, Photography & More:
Personalize your day with stylish decor, photography, and vendor support—all in one place.
🌴 Ready to Get Started?
Your St. Augustine beach wedding doesn’t have to be complicated. Let us handle the permits while you focus on your “I do.”
✨ Contact Sun & Sea Beach Weddings to schedule a consultation and start planning your perfect coastal ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Augustine Beach Wedding Permits
Do I need a permit for a wedding at St. Augustine Beach?
Yes, most public beaches require permits depending on location, setup, and size.
How long does it take to get the permit?
Plan for 2–8 weeks, depending on the jurisdiction. Apply early!
Can I get married at Anastasia State Park?
Yes—but you’ll need a Florida state park permit and must follow additional rules.
Will Sun & Sea Beach Weddings help with the paperwork?
Absolutely. We take care of the entire permit process as part of your package.