newlyweds celebrate nuptials on a overhanging rock
  • Marriage Licenses are issued during business hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) at the Buncombe County Register of Deeds Office at 205 College Street.
    ** Please plan to arrive by 4:30 pm if possible.
  • To obtain a license, both parties must be present with valid photo identification AND Social Security Cards.
  • For your convenience, you may complete the Marriage License Application prior to your visit. The application can also be completed upon arrival at the Register of Deeds office.
    **Please note, submitted online applications will only be held for 30 days.

The fee for a Marriage License is $60.00

NOTE: The license is valid for sixty (60) days from the date issued and can be used anywhere within the state of North Carolina.

More Information

  • If you’ve never been issued a Social Security number or are not eligible for one, the Register of Deeds will provide you with an affidavit that will be signed and notarized in the office.
  • If you are unable to provide your actual Social Security Card, we will need to see something with your name and full 9 digit Social Security Number, such as a W2, tax form, etc.
  • Once the ceremony is performed, the completed license must be returned to the Register of Deeds Office within 10 days. A certificate of marriage can then be issued. Go to the Vital Records – Marriage Certificate tab for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Payment Types

  • Credit/Debit
  • Personal Checks
  • Money Orders
  • Cash

NOTE: Please make personal checks, or money orders payable to Register of Deeds.

Wedding Permits

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wedding Permits

Can I get married on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway does issue permits for weddings in most places along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Weddings are not permitted in biologically sensitive areas such as Craggy Pinnacle. E-mail to inquire about locations.

Are there any restrictions on the size of my wedding group?
Yes, wedding permits are issued for 25 people or less. The exception is a wedding held at Peak of Otter lodge, which allows up to 100 people if you book through the Lodge. A special park use permit is still required.

Are there any date/time restrictions?
Yes, wedding permits are limited to 2 hours in duration. Wedding permits do not authorize in park receptions. Additionally, wedding permits are not issued for any federal holiday, federal holiday weekend, or the entire month of October.

How much does a wedding permit cost?
The non-refundable application fee is $60.00 and the non-refundable permit is $40.00.

What does my wedding permit cover?
The permit is simply an authorization for the activity at the time/date/location listed on the permit. The permit does not cover, nor does the park supply an officiant, state license/paperwork, photographer, or reception/catering, chairs etc.

Can I block off the area for my wedding to keep the public out?
No. The park is a public area and is open for individuals.

Do you offer any type of rain delay or refunds?
No. The permit is for a particular date/time/location. Additionally, the fees for the application and permit are for the paperwork that has been completed and processed.

Are there any other types of unique restrictions for wedding in the park?

The following are some of the items that are not allowed:

  • Live plant material, this includes cut flowers for bouquets and potted plants. Live plant materials may contain insects or unwanted pests that could to be introduced into the park. Please note that silk flowers are allowed.
  • The releasing of doves, butterflies, or other types of wildlife is prohibited.
  • The throwing of birdseed, rice, or food related items is prohibited. Feeding wildlife is prohibited (36 CFR 2.2(a)(2)).
  • The use of horses or horse drawn carriages is prohibited.
  • The use of fire or open flames is prohibited. This includes candles. (If a candle is necessary for your event, a battery operated candle is suggested).
  • The attaching of ribbons, flowers, balloons or signs to vegetation, rocks, or signs within the park is prohibited.
  • The releasing of balloons within the park is prohibited.
  • Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. For additional information specific to alcohol, please read the Superintendent’s Compendium.

Where can I find the application for a wedding permit?
The application for a wedding permit is available online.