🎟️ Permits, Paperwork & Peace of Mind
Let’s get the “not-so-fun” stuff out of the way — so the fun stuff can roll in effortlessly.
Yes, Moab is wild and free, but that doesn’t mean you can just run off into the desert and toss confetti without checking a few boxes first (well… not without possibly getting fined). Permits are a legal must for most elopements and wedding ceremonies — and honestly? They’re also a blessing in disguise because they ensure you get to use your dream location without interruption and with full confidence that your day is good to go.
Let’s break it down by land management type — and yes, I’ll help you figure out what kind of land your spot falls under!
🏞️ National Parks – Arches & Canyonlands
These iconic landscapes come with stricter rules — but it’s so worth it. You’ll need a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.
✔️ Required If:
You’re having a ceremony, even if it’s just the two of you.
A photographer is coming (hi! 👋)
You’re setting up anything temporary (e.g. a floral arch, chairs, a picnic)
📍 Designated Ceremony Locations in Arches:
The Windows
Double Arch
Sand Dune Arch
Park Avenue
La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater
🚫 You can’t choose just anywhere in the park. You’re limited to the NPS’s pre-approved ceremony locations.
⏳ Timeline:
Apply at least 4 weeks in advance — ideally 8–12 weeks, especially for spring and fall dates.
Processing takes about 2–4 weeks, but sooner is better.
💵 Cost:
$185 application fee (non-refundable)
📎 Pro Tips:
Group size is often limited (usually 15–30 depending on location).
No drones, chairs, arches, or amplified music.
You’ll need a copy of your permit with you the day-of.
Park entrance fee is separate: $30/vehicle unless you have a National Parks pass.
🖇️ Links:
Arches Permit Info
Canyonlands Permit Info
🌄 Utah State Parks – Dead Horse Point
This one’s a stunner. Dead Horse Point offers some of the best views in all of Utah (yep, even rivaling the Grand Canyon).
✔️ Required If:
You’re having any kind of ceremony, professional photo session, or gathering of more than 12 people.
📝 How to Apply:
Email the park office directly and request a Special Use Permit application. They’ll guide you step-by-step.
You’ll include your location preference (Point Overlook is a fave), time of day, and group size.
⏳ Timeline:
Apply at least 30 days in advance, but more if it’s high season (April–May, Sept–Oct).
💵 Cost:
Around $60–100 depending on your group size and ceremony type.
Park entry fee: $20 per vehicle
📎 Notes:
You may be required to rent the shade structure if your group is over a certain size.
Drones are NOT allowed.
🌵 BLM Land – Bureau of Land Management
This covers a huge portion of public land in and around Moab — including lesser-known gems like Looking Glass Rock, Fisher Towers, Castle Valley, Onion Creek, and many more.
✔️ Required If:
Your elopement involves more than 10 people.
You’re using a photographer, videographer, or vendors.
You’re bringing anything into the space (picnic setup, floral arch, rugs, etc.)
You're using a commercial guide or doing anything that might be considered “organized.”
📝 How to Apply:
You’ll submit a Special Recreation Permit (SRP) through the Moab BLM Field Office.
It’s a more complex process than the parks — but don’t worry, I help all my couples navigate this. I can even reach out to the land office for you.
⏳ Timeline:
Apply at least 60 days in advance for commercial events (yes, photography counts!)
The earlier, the better — especially if your location is in a high-traffic area.
💵 Cost:
Varies depending on group size and activity.
Usually around $120–200 for small elopements.
📎 Pro Tips:
BLM land allows more flexibility in terms of where you can have your ceremony and what kind of setup you use.
Some areas are remote and require 4WD access — plan accordingly!
You’ll need to follow Leave No Trace and restoration rules strictly.
🌐 Contact Info:
BLM Moab Field Office Website
Or you can contact me and I’ll help figure it out for you!
🧭 Still Not Sure Where You’re Eloping?
No worries! During your planning process with me, we’ll:
Pinpoint your exact ceremony location
Determine what land management agency oversees it
Handle the paperwork together so you’re 100% covered
🤝 My Promise to You
I never leave my couples hanging when it comes to permits. I’ll send reminders, help with forms, and even communicate with the parks or BLM office if needed. Your only job is to soak it all in and get married in the wild, magical, red-rock world of Moab.