What to do after a death in Alaska

Quick facts

• Good to know: Alaska has no state funeral board. The Alaska Department of Commerce regulates funeral homes.

• Tip: Home burial is generally allowed, but check local ordinances. Anchorage requires approved cemeteries.

Getting started in Alaska

• Alaska has relatively flexible funeral regulations compared to many states.

• Home funerals are permitted, and there are no state laws prohibiting burial on private property.

• The Alaska Department of Commerce regulates funeral establishments.

Good to know: Alaska allows families to be closely involved in caring for their loved ones. Take the time you need.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

• Contact the attending physician or hospice nurse if one was involved.

• For unexpected deaths, call 911 for guidance on next steps.

• A burial transit permit is required if the body will be held for more than 72 hours.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will pronounce death and help with initial paperwork.

• Hospice can coordinate with your chosen funeral home.

• You can spend time with your loved one before they’re moved.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 if the death was unexpected.

• The physician must complete medical certification within 24 hours.

• Once death is pronounced, contact a funeral home or begin home funeral arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will guide you through immediate paperwork.

• You can spend time with your loved one before leaving.

• The hospital will ask about funeral arrangements. Take time to decide.

Cremation in Alaska

• Alaska requires a 24-hour waiting period after death before cremation.

• A cremation authorization form must be signed by the next of kin.

• No casket is required. A basic cardboard container is acceptable.

• Embalming isn’t required by state law.

• Ashes may be scattered on private land with owner consent, on public lands, or at sea following EPA guidelines.

Burial in Alaska

• No state laws prohibit burial on private property in Alaska.

• However, local ordinances may apply. Anchorage requires burial in approved cemeteries.

• Check with your local municipality or borough before proceeding with a home burial.

• Burial should be at least 300 feet from any public water supply.

• A burial-transit permit is required.

• No casket is required by state law.

Paperwork in Alaska

• The death certificate must be registered with the local registrar within 3 days.

• The body may not be buried or cremated until the death certificate is filed.

• Certified copies cost $30 for the first copy, $25 for additional copies ordered at the same time.

• Plan to order 8–10 certified copies for insurance, banks, and legal matters.

• Allow 2–3 weeks for processing if ordering by mail.

Consumer rights in Alaska

• You have the right to an itemized General Price List before making any decisions.

• Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased elsewhere without extra fees.

• Embalming isn’t required by Alaska law.

• The Alaska Consumer Protection Unit handles funeral-related complaints at 907-269-5200.

• You can also file complaints with the FTC for Funeral Rule violations.