Your Fort Lauderdale Beach Wedding — No Permit Needed
Picture this: warm sand between your toes, the Atlantic stretching to the horizon, and the person you love standing right in front of you. That’s what a Fort Lauderdale beach wedding feels like — and unlike most South Florida cities, Fort Lauderdale doesn’t require a permit for beach ceremonies. The stretch of shoreline between NE 19th Street and SE 3rd Street is open on a first-come, first-served basis, making it one of the easiest places in Broward County to say “I do” with the ocean as your backdrop.
I’m Notary Alan, a Florida notary public wedding officiant, and I’ve been marrying couples on Fort Lauderdale beach for over 15 years. Whether you’re planning a sunrise elopement for just the two of you or a small celebration with up to 20 of your closest people, I’ll make your ceremony personal, heartfelt, and legally official — all without the fuss of a big production.
Why Couples Choose Fort Lauderdale for Their Ceremony
Fort Lauderdale has earned its reputation as one of the best beach wedding destinations in Florida, and for good reason. The city’s relaxed permit policy means you can bring chairs, a runner, even a small arch — and simply walk onto the beach and get married. No applications, no fees, no waiting period. For couples who want something simple, beautiful, and stress-free, it doesn’t get better than this.
Beyond the beach itself, Fort Lauderdale offers a vibrant backdrop for your wedding day. After your ceremony, you and your guests can stroll along Las Olas Boulevard for dinner, enjoy cocktails at a beachfront restaurant, or take photos along the iconic A1A strip. The city blends tropical beauty with an urban energy that makes every wedding feel like a celebration.
Best Ceremony Spots in Fort Lauderdale — Let Me Help You Choose
After performing hundreds of ceremonies across Fort Lauderdale, I’ve learned which spots work best for small weddings. Before you pick a location, give me a call at (954) 652-6643 or send me a message. I can tell you which stretch of beach will be quieter on your date, the best time to arrive, where to park, and little details that make a big difference. No permit is needed in Fort Lauderdale, but a little local insight from someone who’s been doing this for 15+ years goes a long way. Here are my top recommendations:
Fort Lauderdale Beach (NE 19th St to SE 3rd St)
This is the classic choice and my most popular ceremony location. The beach here is wide, clean, and open to wedding parties without a permit. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light and fewer beachgoers. I recommend arriving 15-20 minutes before your ceremony to find a quiet spot — the area near Sebastian Street is a personal favorite for its slightly less crowded feel.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
If you want a more secluded natural setting, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a beautiful alternative. With mangrove-lined trails, a freshwater lagoon, and a quieter stretch of beachfront, it feels like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. There’s a small park entry fee, and I’d recommend calling ahead about any group gathering requirements. The park closes at sundown, so plan for an afternoon ceremony.
Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
Located right along the main beach strip, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park provides easy parking, restroom access, and a beautiful stretch of sand. It’s convenient for guests who may not be familiar with the area, since the park sits right off A1A with clear signage. The grassy areas near the park entrance also work well for couples who prefer a ceremony off the sand.
Las Olas Beach
At the eastern end of Las Olas Boulevard, where the road meets the ocean, you’ll find one of the most photogenic spots in Fort Lauderdale. The area near the wave wall is perfect for couples who want the beach ceremony experience with easy access to Las Olas restaurants and shops for a post-ceremony celebration. Parking is metered along the boulevard, and there’s a public lot nearby.
Wedding Services I Provide in Fort Lauderdale
As a licensed Florida notary public, I’m legally authorized to perform wedding ceremonies and handle your marriage license. Here’s what I offer couples in Fort Lauderdale:
- Beach elopements — Just the two of you, exchanging vows with the waves as your witness
- Micro weddings — Intimate ceremonies with up to 20 guests, keeping things personal and meaningful
- Vow renewals — Celebrate your love all over again on Fort Lauderdale beach
- Same-day ceremonies — Decided to get married today? Call me. If I’m available, we can make it happen
- LGBTQ+ weddings — All couples are welcome. Love is love, and I’m honored to officiate for everyone
- Custom vows — Want to write your own words? I’ll work them into a beautiful ceremony alongside the traditional vows
My ceremonies are nonreligious and traditional — think “justice of the peace” style with a warm, personal touch. If you’d like to add a personal reading, a unity ceremony, or say something special to each other, I’ll weave it seamlessly into the ceremony. Every wedding I perform is about you and your love story.
How It Works — 3 Simple Steps
Step 1: Reach out. Fill out the contact form on my website or call me directly at (954) 652-6643. Tell me about your ceremony — when, where, how many guests, and any special touches you’d like. I’ll share advice on the best Fort Lauderdale spots and timing before you do anything else.
Step 2: Plan your ceremony. We’ll discuss your vows, ceremony flow, and any personal details you want included. I’ll walk you through the marriage license process so there are no surprises on your wedding day.
Step 3: Say “I do.” I’ll arrive at your chosen Fort Lauderdale location, perform your ceremony, handle all the legal paperwork, and make sure your marriage is official. All you have to do is show up, smile, and marry the love of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions — Fort Lauderdale Weddings
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No. Fort Lauderdale does not require a permit for beach wedding ceremonies. The beach between NE 19th Street and SE 3rd Street is available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may bring chairs, a sand runner, or a small arch. Tents, amplified music, and catering setups are not permitted on the public beach. Even though no permit is needed, give me a call before your ceremony — I can recommend the best spot and time based on 15+ years of local experience.
What do I need to get married in Fort Lauderdale?
You need a valid Florida marriage license, which you can obtain from the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Both partners must appear in person with valid photo ID. Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period after obtaining the license (waived if you complete a premarital course). Non-residents have no waiting period. The license is valid for 60 days.
What is the best time of day for a Fort Lauderdale beach wedding?
Early morning (before 9 AM) and late afternoon (after 4 PM) are ideal. You’ll have fewer beachgoers, softer lighting for photos, and more comfortable temperatures. Sunset ceremonies are the most popular — golden hour on Fort Lauderdale beach is stunning from October through April.
How many guests can attend a Fort Lauderdale beach wedding?
I specialize in micro weddings with up to 20 guests. For small groups on Fort Lauderdale beach, no special arrangements are needed beyond bringing your own chairs. If your guest count is under 20, we can comfortably set up on the beach without any issues.
Can I get married in Fort Lauderdale today?
Yes, same-day ceremonies are possible if you already have your Florida marriage license and I have availability. Call me directly at (954) 652-6643 to check. Non-Florida residents can use their license immediately, while Florida residents typically need to wait 3 days after obtaining it (unless they completed a premarital course).
Ready to Get Married on Fort Lauderdale Beach?
Your Fort Lauderdale beach wedding can be as simple or as special as you want it to be. Whether you’re eloping at sunrise or gathering a handful of loved ones for a sunset ceremony, I’m here to make it happen. Tell me about your ceremony or call me at (954) 652-6643 — let’s start planning your day.
Notary Alan also performs wedding ceremonies in nearby Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Pompano Beach, and Wilton Manors. Visit the Locations page to see all the communities we serve across South Florida.