What to do after a death in Nevada

Quick facts

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

• Tip: Family cemeteries are only allowed in counties with populations under 50,000.

Getting started in Nevada

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

• The Nevada Funeral and Cemetery Services Board regulates funeral homes and investigates complaints.

• The death certificate must be filed within 72 hours and before final disposition.

Good to know: Nevada allows families to be as involved as they wish in caring for 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.

• A body can’t be held more than 72 hours without a burial or removal permit.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will pronounce death and complete initial paperwork.

• They can help coordinate with a funeral home of your choice.

• Take the time you need before any decisions are made.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The coroner 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 help with immediate paperwork.

• You can spend time with your loved one.

• Take time to decide on funeral arrangements. There’s no rush.

Cremation in Nevada

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

• A completed and filed death certificate authorizes cremation. No additional permit is needed.

• For sudden, accidental, or suspicious deaths, the coroner must give clearance first.

• Written authorization from the legal next of kin is required.

• Embalming is generally not required for direct cremation.

Burial in Nevada

• Home burial is only permitted in counties with populations under 50,000 (excludes Clark County/Las Vegas).

• Check if your county has passed an ordinance allowing family cemeteries.

• Notify the Division of Public and Behavioral Health before the first burial.

• A burial permit from the local health officer is required.

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

Paperwork in Nevada

• The death certificate must be filed within 72 hours and before final disposition.

• A burial or removal permit is required before interment, cremation, or transport.

• Certified copies are available to immediate family and those with direct legal interest.

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

• The funeral director listed on the certificate can request copies within 180 days.

Consumer rights in Nevada

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

• Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased elsewhere.

• Embalming can’t be required until 72 hours have passed (unless required by Board of Health).

• File complaints with the Nevada Funeral and Cemetery Services Board at (775) 825-5535.

• Be wary of third-party vendors charging high fees for certificates. Order directly from health departments.