What to do after a death in Oklahoma

Quick facts

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

• Tip: Record private burial locations with the county clerk for future property transfers.

Getting started in Oklahoma

• Oklahoma doesn’t require a funeral director. Families can bury their own and complete necessary paperwork.

• The Oklahoma Funeral Board regulates funeral homes, crematories, and burial associations.

• A death certificate must be filed within 10 days (effective November 1, 2024).

Good to know: Oklahoma gives families significant control over funeral arrangements. Take time to explore your options.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

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

• For unexpected deaths, call 911.

• The body must be embalmed or refrigerated if disposition won’t occur within 24 hours.

Hospice was involved

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

• Hospice can coordinate with your chosen funeral home.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The medical examiner may need to investigate depending on circumstances.

• Once cleared, you can proceed with 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. There’s no pressure to choose immediately.

Cremation in Oklahoma

• Oklahoma requires a 48-hour waiting period after death before cremation.

• A cremation permit from the State Medical Examiner is required.

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

• No public viewing is allowed more than 24 hours after death unless the body is embalmed.

• Expect 3–7 days from death to cremation when including paperwork time.

Burial in Oklahoma

• Home burial on private property is permitted. No state law prohibits it.

• Check local zoning laws and ordinances before proceeding.

• Record the burial location with the county clerk to prevent future legal issues.

• Private burials must not interfere with groundwater sources or environmental regulations.

• Establishing a family cemetery creates a permanent easement on the property title.

Paperwork in Oklahoma

• The death certificate must be filed within 10 days of death.

• Medical certification must be completed within 5 days.

• Certified copies cost $10 each.

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

• Mail orders take about 6 weeks; expedited service available via Express Mail (1-3 business days).

Consumer rights in Oklahoma

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

• File complaints with the Oklahoma Funeral Board. Discuss issues with the funeral home first.

• The Board can impose fines up to $10,000 and revoke licenses.

• For cemetery or monument company issues, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at (405) 521-4274.

• The Board doesn’t have jurisdiction over cemeteries, monument companies, or vault companies.