Lake Arrowhead and the surrounding mountain communities have become known as a beautiful and romantic place to say, “I do.” With our towering pines, beautiful scenery, cool mountain air and breathtaking views, it’s easy to understand why couples are drawn to the mountains for their weddings and special events.
But there is much more to operating a wedding or event venue than simply having a beautiful property.
One of the most important things a property owner needs to understand is that owning a commercial property does not automatically mean you are permitted to hold weddings or other large events there. Zoning, land use and the required permits all play an important role.
In San Bernardino County, event venues can be subject to a number of requirements. County Planning considers parking, traffic, emergency access, handicapped accessibility, lighting, noise and the overall impact that events may have on our mountain community.
And here in the mountains, those considerations can be particularly important.
Our roads are narrow, winding and often difficult to navigate. Many businesses have limited parking to begin with. A property that looks perfect for a wedding may not have the infrastructure necessary to safely accommodate dozens – or hundreds – of additional vehicles and guests.
Parking is one example. Having a parking area somewhere nearby does not necessarily solve the problem. A venue is required to provide appropriate parking on its own property rather than simply shuttling guests from another location.
Accessibility is another consideration. Wedding venues must be able to provide appropriate access for guests with disabilities, along with the required facilities and pathways.
Traffic can also become a significant issue. Large events bring a concentration of vehicles to an area at the same time, which is why traffic studies and other evaluations are required as part of the approval process.
Noise is another important consideration, particularly in residential mountain communities.
There is also something called a change of use or change of conditions that property owners need to understand. A property that was previously used for one type of commercial business may have different requirements if the owner wants to convert it into a wedding or event venue. Just because a business was legally operating under one use does not necessarily mean it can simply begin hosting weddings.
Residential properties have their own limitations as well. A private event held at a home is very different from operating a commercial wedding venue, and property owners should not assume that hosting occasional private gatherings gives them permission to operate an ongoing event business.
The bottom line is simple: If you are considering purchasing a property with the idea of turning it into a wedding or event venue, do your homework before you buy.
Talk with San Bernardino County Planning. Check the zoning. Review the applicable County Code. Find out what permits and studies may be required and whether the property can actually support the type and size of events you have in mind.
The mountains are a wonderful place to celebrate a wedding. But behind every successful event venue is much more than a beautiful view. There are regulations, planning, infrastructure and a responsibility to make sure that celebrations can take place safely while respecting the surrounding community.
A beautiful property may make you dream about weddings. But before you say “I do” to becoming a wedding venue, make sure the property can legally – and practically – do it.
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