There’s something pretty magical about saying your vows in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The way the light spills over the ridgelines, the stillness of the forest, and the sense that the world has slowed down just for you. It’s the kind of place that feels meant for moments like this. But before you head off into the mountains to say “I do,” there’s one small but important step: getting the right permits. It might not be the most exciting part of planning your elopement, but it’s what allows you to legally (and respectfully) celebrate in these protected spaces. The good news? It’s totally doable and 100% worth it to make sure your day is stress-free, beautiful, and rooted in intention.
Getting Your Marriage License in Asheville
Before you can say “I do” in the mountains, you’ll need to swing by and grab your marriage license. Don’t worry, it’s pretty straightforward, and the Buncombe County Register of Deeds staff is usually super helpful.
Here’s what you need to know:
Where to go:
Head to the Buncombe County Register of Deeds Office at 205 College Street in downtown Asheville.
When to go:
They’re open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Just make sure you arrive before 4:30, or they might not be able to process your application.
What to bring:
Both of you will need to be there in person with:
A valid photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport)
Your Social Security cards
Optional time-saver:
You can fill out the Online Marriage License Application ahead of time, which speeds things up at the office. Just know it’s only held in the system for 30 days, so don’t fill it out too far in advance.
How much it costs:
The license is $60, and they accept credit/debit cards, checks, money orders, or cash.
How long it's good for:
Once you have it, your license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere in North Carolina, so whether you’re eloping downtown or on a mountaintop, you’re all set.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is absolutely gorgeous! It's known for its unrelenting beauty and so many couples truly love coming to say their vows in this beautiful place.
So what are the specifics? Let's break this down.
1. Permit Requirement & Types
Any ceremony for your elopement, vow renewal, or micro-wedding requires a Special Use Permit (SUP) on the Parkway. Photography-only use generally doesn’t require one. Essentially, if you aren't bringing chairs, arches, or any kind of set up, as well as a large group...you won't need a permit.
But if you do...
Permits are valid for 2 hours, which covers just the ceremony, not receptions.
2. Application & Fees
Fee: $150 total ($75 application + $75 administrative); payment is via Pay.gov only—no cash or checks
You'll submit your completed application and fee at least 30 days before, though 60 days is recommended to ensure timely processing .
3. Group Size & Time Limits
If you are bringing a small group of people:
Maximum group size: 25 people total, including vendors. Some locations cap at 12–15 people.
4. Where You Can (and Can’t) Say “I Do”
Permitted ceremony sites include a variety of overlooks and pull-offs along the Parkway, such as Black Balsam, Grandfather Mountain, Same Knob, and many more.
Locations explicitly closed for weddings: Rough Ridge, Craggy Pinnacle, Linville Falls, Graveyard Fields, Devil’s Courthouse, Waterrock Knob, etc. Some areas are restricted unless bypassing closure rules: Click HERE
5. Rules & Restrictions
No live/dried flowers, open flames, arches, decor attached to natural features, birdseed/rice, released wildlife, or alcohol.
Botanicals and decorations must stay within Leave-No-Trace principles.
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Public access: no blocking access or reserving exclusivity .
Drone use is strictly prohibited.
In case of closure due to weather or park issues, no refund or rescheduling options are available.
6. Weather, Closures & Timing
Parkway closures, especially winter-related or hurricane impacts, can occur, as in late 2024 after Hurricane Helene. IT's always good to check HERE to see what's open and what's closed based on time of year.
Best seasons for privacy: winter and spring; fall (particularly October) sees high traffic, though permits are now open that month .
To Apply for your permit:
1. Asheville City / County
Permits via NPS apply when on the Parkway near Asheville.
For courthouse elopements: Buncombe County Courthouse offers legal ceremonies downtown; you'll need an officiant and two witnesses, but no SUP.
2. Pisgah National Forest & Other Public Lands
National Forest locations (e.g., Wiseman’s View, Black Balsam Knob, Sam’s Knob) do not require permits for ceremonies of under 75 people—no SUP required.
3. Private Venues & State Parks
Venues like Diamond Falls Preserve, Hidden River Events, or Chimney Rock State Park have their own permit processes—check with each directly .
Hope this all helps you as you start thinking about applying for your elopement permit! You've got this!
