What to do after a death in Arizona

Quick facts

• Good to know: A funeral director isn’t required. Families can handle all arrangements.

• Tip: Record the cemetery location with the county recorder before burial.

Getting started in Arizona

• Arizona doesn’t require a funeral director. Families can make their own arrangements.

• The Arizona Department of Health Services now oversees funeral industry licensing and complaints.

• Arizona has some of the most flexible laws in the country for home funerals and burials.

Good to know: Arizona gives families considerable freedom in how they care for and honor their loved one.

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.

• If not embalmed or refrigerated, burial or cremation should occur within 24 hours.

Hospice was involved

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

• They can coordinate with a funeral home or support your home funeral plans.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The medical examiner will determine if investigation is needed.

• Once cleared, you can proceed with your chosen 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.

• Take time to decide on funeral arrangements.

Cremation in Arizona

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

• The county medical examiner must approve each cremation.

• The next of kin or authorized person must sign a cremation authorization form.

• No casket is required. Alternative containers are acceptable.

• Alkaline hydrolysis (water cremation) and natural organic reduction are both legal options.

Burial in Arizona

• Home burial on private property is allowed. Arizona has some of the loosest rules in the country.

• You can only bury related family members on your property.

• Record the cemetery location with the county recorder before burial.

• Create a map and file it with your property deed.

• No casket or burial vault is required by state law.

Paperwork in Arizona

• The death certificate must be filed within 7 days of death.

• If handling arrangements yourself, file with Vital Records within 72 hours.

• The medical examiner has 72 hours to complete the medical section.

• Certified copies cost $20 each and are typically available in 3–5 business days.

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

Consumer rights in Arizona

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

• Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased elsewhere.

• Embalming isn’t required by law. It’s your choice.

• File complaints with Arizona Department of Health Services Funeral Services Licensing.

• The FTC Funeral Rule protects you. File complaints at ftc.gov for violations.