Leap into Marriage on Leap Year Day

It's not quite once in a blue moon, but February 29 only comes once every four years and Santa Cruz County Clerk Gail Pellerin thinks that may be a great time to leap into marriage.

Her office is staging weddings from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 29 on the fifth floor of the County Administration Building in a room that overlooks the San Lorenzo River.

She staged 20 or more weddings each of the last two Valentine's Days.

“February 29 is a special day," said Pellerin. "We thought people might want to get married on such a memorable day. It will be an easy day to remember."

The cost of the wedding ceremony is $75. Couples will receive a special souvenir marriage certificate commemorating “We took the leap on Leap Year Day.”

Couples must reserve a time by calling 831-454-2060 or by coming to the County Clerk’s Office located at 701 Ocean Street, Room 210, Santa Cruz. Ceremonies will be held every hour. Couples who are late for their scheduled ceremony may have to reschedule for another day.

Couples must have a valid marriage license prior to the scheduled ceremony and have at least one witness present for public ceremonies. No witness is required for confidential marriages. 

A public marriage license costs $75 and licenses are issued by the County Clerk. To obtain a marriage license, the bride and groom must appear in person with valid identification, complete a form providing personal information, and take an oath.

For more information, call 831-454-2060 or visit the County Clerk’s website at www.sccoclerk.com.