Laguna Hills Civic Center
A Laguna Hills Civic Center wedding is perfect for couples looking for an intimate civil ceremony or an Orange County elopement. Laguna Hills Civic Center photos feel more modern than the Old Courthouse wedding pics. Ceremonies will be performed by a Deputy Commissioner of Marriage from the County Clerks' office. Make sure your witness or guests are on time as the vow exchange is around 5-7 minutes long. There is plenty of time to take photos after the ceremony. Get more details about our Orange County wedding photographer services.
Laguna Hills Civic Center Location: Right of the 5 Freeway 24031 El Toro Rd, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Phone #: (714) 834-2500
Parking: Onsite. Free. Easy and plenty of spots.
Laguna Hills Civic Center Marriage
A Laguna Hills Courthouse Wedding is perfect for couples looking for an intimate civil ceremony. This location is conveniently located off the 5 Freeway in Orange County.
What to expect from a civil ceremony
- The ceremony is 5-7 minutes
- You will be appointed a Deputy Commissioner of Marriage from the County Clerks' office.
- Vows are provided by the County Clerks office. The department is limited to a set of vows that the Orange County Board of Supervisors has approved.
- Ceremonies are held inside the ceremony room. It can accommodate up to 20-25 guests.
- Outdoor ceremonies are held in front of the water fountain or on the beautifully manicured lawn. (Based on weather and staff)
Can I get married on a Saturday?
Yes, you can have your wedding on a Saturday. However, the three main branches that perform civil ceremonies are only open one Saturday a month. Appointments are available for marriage licenses and ceremonies. Or you can walk in on a first come first serve basis. For more information on how to get a marriage license visit our blog. Be sure to check OCRecorder.com for any changes or updates.
For more information, call the information line, Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
OC Clerk-Recorder Department Information Line
(714) 834-2500
Second Location After Civil Ceremony
Choosing a second location for wedding portraits is a beautiful way to document your special day. We recommend planning this ahead of time with your photographer.
Some of our favorite locations near Laguna Hills Civic Center are:
- Laguna Beach
- Lido Island
- The Mission San Juan Capistrano
- Local parks
What's near by the civic center
How can I make my elopement special?
- Bridal Gown: Wear a special dress. It doesn't have to be white.
- Hair and makeup: Be sure to pamper yourself and look your best for your wedding.
- Flowers: This is always a nice touch. Flowers make photos look special and add color.
- Groom's attire: Be sure to dress nicely. Buying a new suit is a good idea.
- Photographer: Hire a professional photographer to document the ceremony.
- Romantic portrait session: Choose a location after the ceremony for romantic portraits. After the ceremony, we take photos around the civic center. In addition, we recommend a second location nearby. Laguna Beach or Mission San Juan are nice places for portraits.
- Wedding Guests/Witnesses: Invite close family or friends to attend your union. Most couples invite 5-15 guests.
- Celebrate with a meal: After the ceremony invite guests to lunch or dinner. Continue the celebration at a local restaurant.
- Champagne: Nothing says congratulations like a toast to the newlyweds with champagne.
- Cake: Always a great idea. Treat yourselves to a special cake to share with guests.
Mid-week elopement packages 2025/2026
Mid-Week Packages start at $995 and include:
- Up to 2 hours of photography coverage at one location.
- Photo session in and around the Civic Center after the ceremony.
- Online gallery of images delivered within 2-3 business days or sooner.
Add-ons:
- Custom Hand-made Italian wedding album.
- Add a second location for wedding portraits in Orange County.
Schedule Call
Book your free call today. Use the link below to schedule a quick call so that I can learn more about you, answer all of your questions, and help you start planning your headshot session.
Easy Photo Session
Relax! I will coach you through the process so you feel and look your best, including posing, facial expression, and expert guidance throughout our time together.
Fast Delivery
I will have your images ready within 24 hours. So you can pick your favorites and have your online profile updated quickly.
Have A Specific Laguna Hills Civic Center Elopement Question?
Just click below to schedule a quick chat
Where is Laguna Hills Civic Center located?
The Laguna Hills Civic Center is located at 24035 El Toro Rd, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Just off the 5 freeway and across from BJs Restaurant & Brewhouse.
Do we need an appointment to have a civil ceremony at Laguna Hills Civic Center?
No you do not need an appointment to get married at the LHCC, however it is highly recommended to make an appointment online.
Pro tip: You must start the online marriage application process before you head over to the Laguna Hills Civic Center. This is their official OC Clerk-Clerk-Recorder's website.
Is Laguna Hills Civic Center open on weekends?
The Laguna Hills Civic Center is open one Saturday a month be sure to check the official calendar.
Closed on Sundays.
Pro tip: this will be the busiest time to get married here. Be prepared for lots of people.
How much are the marriage license and ceremony fees?
As of Oct. 2025 according to the official OC Clerk-Recorder's office website:
- Civil non-sectarian wedding ceremonies are $28.
- Public marriage license is $61
- Confidential marriage license is $66
Where are ceremonies held?
At the Laguna Hills Civic Center there is a designated indoor ceremony room that can accommodate up to 25 people.
However, upon request and if the weather permits, you can ask for an outdoor ceremony. Up to the discretion of the County Clerk.
Can we bring our dog to a Laguna Hills Civic Center wedding?
Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash. However, they are not allowed inside the building only outside. So be sure to bring a handler for when you have to go inside to sign the paperwork.
Can we hire a professional photographer for our civil ceremony?
Yes, this is highly encouraged.
Pro tip: If you have a public marriage license your photographer can be your witness.
Do we need a photography permit?
No, a photo permit is not required to take photos of your civil wedding ceremony.
Meet Christopher Todd – Your Trusted Orange County Photographer
Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that. Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past 25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft, specializing in headshots, family portraits, weddings, and events. My deep local knowledge helps me guide clients to the perfect locations—whether it’s a hidden coastal gem in Laguna Beach, a sunlit park in Irvine, or an iconic spot like the Huntington Beach Pier.
To make planning your session even easier, I’ve put together my Top 10 Outdoor Family Portrait Locations in Orange County guide. If you're looking for an experienced, passionate photographer who truly knows OC, let’s connect! Contact me today.