What to do after a death in Pennsylvania

Quick facts

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

• Tip: You can legally designate someone other than next-of-kin to make funeral decisions.

Getting started in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania doesn’t require a licensed funeral director to make or carry out final arrangements.

• The State Board of Funeral Directors regulates the industry and handles complaints.

• Families have significant flexibility in how they care for their loved one.

Good to know: Pennsylvania law allows you to override next-of-kin decisions by putting your wishes in writing beforehand.

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. Emergency services will guide next steps.

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

Hospice was involved

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

• Hospice can coordinate with a funeral home or support a home funeral.

• Take the time you need with your loved one.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death. The coroner may be notified.

• Once death is pronounced, you can proceed with arrangements.

• Contact a funeral home or begin planning a home funeral if you choose.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will handle pronouncement and initial paperwork.

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

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

Cremation in Pennsylvania

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

• Every cremation must be referred to the county coroner for approval.

• A cremation authorization form must be signed by the responsible party.

• A casket isn’t required. An alternative combustible container is acceptable.

• The funeral home must accept a casket or urn you purchase elsewhere.

Burial in Pennsylvania

• Home burial on private property is allowed in Pennsylvania. No state law prohibits it.

• Check local zoning. Philadelphia prohibits burials outside established cemeteries.

• Family cemeteries must be registered with the local county clerk.

• Graves must be at least 18 inches deep from the top of the casket to ground surface.

• Burials must be at least 1 mile from any municipal water supply.

Paperwork in Pennsylvania

• The local registrar must submit the death certificate to Vital Records within 90 days.

• A permit for disposal must be obtained from the registrar before burial or cremation.

• Certified copies cost $20 each regardless of quantity.

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

• Records are available for deaths that occurred since 1906.

Consumer rights in Pennsylvania

• 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. Refrigeration or a sealed container are alternatives.

• You can designate a funeral agent to make decisions on your behalf.

• File complaints with the State Board of Funeral Directors at dos.pa.gov.