Weddings and other ceremonies may be permitted in designated areas of Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, subject to location, group size, and time of year or day. Simple ceremonies are ideal due to NPS restrictions, with large receptions not permitted. If you desire a large, exclusive, or decorated celebration, consider alternative locations outside the park.
Wedding Permit Requirements
A Special Use Permit is required for any ceremony in the park. Applications can be submitted up to 12 months in advance and no later than 2-4 weeks before the event. Due to changing conditions, permits won't be issued more than a few weeks in advance, and the approved permit must be present during the event.
Small Wedding Exception: Ceremonies with up to five people (including the wedding party, officiant, photographer, and witnesses) incur no charge. Please contact the Permit Office for a full list of rules and regulations.
Application Process and Fees
A $50 non-refundable application fee is required to process your request. Applications must be submitted at least 2-4 weeks in advance, depending on the time of year.
An additional $100 administrative fee is due upon approval of your application, prior to permit issuance. Further cost recovery fees may apply based on the event's complexity.
Download and complete the application form above. Applications must include:
Applicant information, including name, contact information, and organization details
Information about the proposed activity, including purpose, requested dates, activity location, and number of participants
Signature of the applicant
Application fee
Submit application to MABI_SAGA_Permits@nps.gov.
Application Review
Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis and are typically answered within one week. If approved, the permit office will respond with an email confirming the dates and details of your permit, along with an attached permit for your signature. Reservations are not confirmed until all fees have been paid, which can be completed via check or credit card.
Locations Available
Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park does not allow exclusive use of any area; normal visitor activity will be present during ceremonies. Group size, season, and time of day will determine the approval of your requested location.
Lawn by the Formal Gardens
Max Capacity: 35 people
Access: Chairs permitted; no tents or arbors. Limited accessible parking available; others must park at Billings Farm and Museum. Public bathrooms at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center.
Lawn by the Mansion
Max Capacity: 35 people
Access: Chairs permitted; no tents or arbors. Limited accessible parking available; others must park at Billings Farm and Museum. Public bathrooms at the Carriage Barn Visitor Center.
Pony Shed Pasture
Max Capacity: 35 people (if only using existing park facilities); up to 150 with rented port-a-potties.
Access: Chairs permitted; tents or arbors may be allowed at specified locations. Limited accessible parking available; others must park at Billings Farm and Museum.
Lawn by Forest Center
Max Capacity: 35 people (if only using existing park facilities); up to 150 with rented port-a-potties.
Access: Chairs permitted; tents or arbors may be allowed at specified locations. Limited accessible parking available; others must park at Billings Farm and Museum.
Indoor Ceremonies
Ceremonies in government buildings (e.g., mansion or visitor center) are possible, but receptions are not permitted. The Forest Center may be available for staging at an additional cost.
General Event Information
Site use operates on a first-requested, first-served basis. If your requested location is unavailable, alternative options may be discussed.
Your permit does not guarantee exclusive use of a space or prevent other visitors from using the area.
Ceremonies with over five attendees must begin at 5:00 p.m. or later to minimize impacts on park operations and visitors. Time for set-up is available earlier but must not interfere with the visitor experience. For paid permits, a permit monitor will be on site to provide support and keep restrooms open after hours.
The use of hardy flower bouquets and boutonnières are preferable, to ensure seeds do not fall and germinate. The use of native flower arrangements is also preferred; picking flowers in park boundaries and use of potted live plants are prohibited.
Carpooling is recommended as parking can be limited.
Prohibited Activities
Please review park regulationsprior to planning your event. The following are prohibited:
Vehicles on carriage roads and trails.
Amplified music, microphones, or speakers.
Release of living or inanimate objects (e.g., butterflies, bird seed).
Unattended food items.
Decorations (e.g. balloons, archways) or directional signage.
Restricting visitor use or blocking the flow of traffic.
Drones may not be flown anywhere within the national park boundaries
Park Approval is required for:
Tents, arbors, altars, or other temporary structures.
Photography equipment (with the exception of handheld equipment and tripods)
Dogs are permitted at approved outdoor wedding locations. All dogs must be on a leash 6 ft. in length, or shorter, at all times. All dog waste must be picked up and disposed of off-site.
Please respect park resources and tread lightly during your visit.
