Emerald Bay State Park Permit Rules

Permits,
2 min read Mar 27, 2024

What You Need to Know

Emerald Bay State Park is a protected public space within the Sierra District of California State Parks. Regulations are strictly enforced to protect wildlife, natural resources, and public safety.

Simply Eloped Representative Required

  • A Simply Eloped team member must be present at your ceremony. This may be:

    • Officiant

    • Photographer

    • Videographer

    • On-site helper

  • With the Orchid Package, an on-site helper is required as an add-on.

Seasonal Access

  • The lookout may be unavailable during winter months due to road conditions or avalanche danger.

Public Access & Shared Use

  • The ceremony site is located within a public state park and is not closed to the public.

  • Your permit does not grant exclusive use.

  • You may encounter other visitors or events upon arrival.

  • If another event is taking place, please wait respectfully at a distance.

  • Do not interfere with normal park activities.

Alcohol & Smoking

  • Alcohol is not permitted.

  • Smoking, e-cigarettes, and vaping are prohibited.

Decorations & Site Protection

  • No structures or sets may be constructed.

  • No digging, excavation, staking, or attaching items at the ceremony site.

  • Nothing may be affixed to any Department of Parks and Recreation facility.

  • Shrubs and trees may not be cut, trimmed, or damaged.

  • No fires are allowed.

  • Throwing or releasing materials is strictly prohibited, including:

    • Petals

    • Rice

    • Glitter

    • Balloons

    • Doves or other animals

  • No items may be left at the site before or after your ceremony.

Drones

  • Drones and all unmanned aircraft are prohibited in all Sierra District State Parks.

Leave No Trace

  • There are no facilities at the ceremony site (no restrooms, trash cans, water fountains, or electricity).

  • Pack out all trash.

  • Maintain the site in a clean and sanitary condition and leave it as you found it.

Parking & Shuttle Information

Parking at Emerald Bay can be extremely limited and challenging, especially during peak seasons.

  • Your permit does not guarantee parking.

  • Vehicles must park only in designated spaces.

  • Parking outside designated areas may result in citation.

  • Drop-off and pick-up services are strongly recommended.

Emerald Bay now operates a shuttle system during peak times. The couple and guests are responsible for:

  • Securing parking

  • Purchasing shuttle tickets if required

  • Arranging transportation to and from the ceremony site

You can read more about the shuttle system here:
https://www.keeptahoeblue.org/emerald-bay-shuttle/

Pets

  • Dogs are not allowed on any trails, roads into Emerald Bay, or on the beach.

Permits
Written by Janessa White

Janessa White is the co-founder of Simply Eloped and has helped thousands of couples plan elopements. As an expert in the field, she has been featured on Brides.com, Vox, and HuffPost. Janessa thinks elopements are the ultimate way to tie the knot.