Full evening rentals available on weekdays and weekends
From corporate receptions to nonprofit galas and civic celebrations, San Francisco City Hall creates an unforgettable backdrop for the memories of a lifetime.Book City Hall for your eventEvent spaces
City Hall offers the perfect backdrop for all types of celebrations including corporate receptions, nonprofit galas, civic celebrations, holiday parties, and other special events.
Event spaces include:
- The Rotunda
- The Mayor's Balcony
- North Light Court
- South Light Court
These event spaces are bundled and cannot be rented separately.
Dates and hours
Availability
You may book evening rentals on weekdays and weekends, except Tuesdays due to Board of Supervisors meetings.
We do not offer daytime rentals as the building is open to the public Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Scheduling
You can book up to 2 years in advance.
Contact Nicole Padua (nicole.padua@sfgov.org) for availability and booking assistance.
Event-day hours
| Access and end times | |
|---|---|
North Light Court access | 2:00 pm |
All other areas access | 4:00 pm |
Earlier access | Available for additional rental and labor fees, subject to availability |
Event must conclude | 12:00 midnight |
Load-out must be completed | 2:00 am |
Rental costs and capacities
- These rental rates do not include mandatory Sheriff's fees.
- Events with more than 2,000 guests require special approval.
| Configuration | Guest count | Rate |
|---|---|---|
Rotunda + one Light Court | 1 to 499 guests | $12,000 |
Rotunda + both Light Courts | 1 to 999 guests | $15,000 |
Rotunda + both Light Courts | 1,000 to 1,499 guests | $17,500 |
Rotunda + both Light Courts | 1,500 to 1,999 guests | $22,500 |
Rotunda + both Light Courts | 2,000 to 2,499 guests | $27,500 |
Early and late access costs
- Additional labor costs for Sheriffs, engineer and Event manager will apply.
- All additional access subject to approval.
| Access type | Cost |
|---|---|
Early Access: Weekday Rotunda | $1,000 per hour |
Early Access: Weekday Light Court | $500 per hour (per room) |
Early Access: All areas on weekends | $500 per hour |
Late access: Guest event | $5,000 per hour |
Late access: Load-out | $500 per hour |
Set-up day | 50% of base rent |
What's included
- Basic building services (power, WiFi, restroom maintenance, building staff)
- Private use of the Rotunda, Grand Staircase, and selected Light Courts.
What's NOT included
- Sheriff's Department: Mandatory for all evening events.
- Costs typically range from $10,000–$15,000+ depending on guest count and event needs. Rates are subject to change.
- Reach out to our office for a Sheriff cost estimate.
- Insurance: A Certificate of Insurance is required, covering Workers Compensation, Public Liability ($1 million), and Property Damage ($1 million).
- Equipment and other services: We do not provide any event equipment.
- Chairs, lighting and AV, tables, catering, musicians, decor, and all other vendors must be hired through the qualified vendor list.
- Waste management: We do not handle trash removal.
- Typically, waste management is handled by the caterer. Check with your vendor.
- All waste produced at your event must be disposed of off-site. We do not provide waste receptacles.
- Permits: Must be secured by the licensee.
- Examples include alcohol, fire, parking, etc.
Policies and requirements
Vendors
- You must use our list of qualified vendors for all services.
- Vendors on these lists are pre-approved, meet all necessary building requirements, and are familiar with our rules and regulations.
- See our lists of qualified vendors
Site visit with vendors
- At least 2 weeks before your event, your caterer and other vendors must conduct a mandatory site visit with City Hall Events Office staff.
- Site visits are by appointment only, Tuesday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Contact Nicole Padua (nicole.padua@sfgov.org) to book your site visit.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- EMT is required onsite for events with 800 or more guests.
Fire permits
- Open flame: Fire permit and onsite Fire Watch required
- This includes candles and on-site food preparation.
- Connect with your caterer for fire permit coordination.
- All events with over 500 guests require the presence of a Fire Marshall throughout the event.
- Visit the San Francisco Fire Department website for more information regarding permit fees and other costs.
Final costs and payment
Final invoice will be provided approximately 3 weeks before your event.
Final payment must be received no later than 5 days before the event date.
Disclaimer
Photos of previous City Hall events found online may not reflect what's included in your specific package. Check with your coordinator about what's allowed and realistic for your event before using them as inspiration.
Contact us
Contact Nicole Padua (nicole.padua@sfgov.org) for more information and booking assistance.