What to do after a death in South Carolina

Quick facts

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

• Tip: Map and record any home burial with your property deed.

Getting started in South Carolina

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

• The SC Board of Funeral Service licenses and investigates all funeral establishments.

• Death certificates must be filed electronically within 5 days.

Good to know: Take your time to understand your options. South Carolina gives families flexibility in funeral planning.

First 24–72 hours

If the death occurred at home

• Contact the attending physician or hospice nurse if involved.

• For unexpected deaths, call 911.

• You can keep the body at home while making arrangements.

Hospice was involved

• The hospice nurse will come to pronounce death.

• They’ll help with initial paperwork and can coordinate next steps.

• Take your time. There’s no rush to make decisions.

No hospice involvement

• Call 911 for any unexpected death.

• The coroner will be notified to determine if investigation is needed.

• Once cleared, proceed with your funeral arrangements.

If the death occurred at a hospital

• Hospital staff will guide you through immediate paperwork.

• You can stay with your loved one before leaving.

• Take time to decide on funeral arrangements. There’s no pressure to choose immediately.

Cremation in South Carolina

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

• The waiting period can be waived by a doctor, medical examiner, or coroner for infectious disease.

• The coroner or medical examiner must issue a cremation permit first.

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

• You’ll need a certified death certificate or electronic abstract for the permit.

Burial in South Carolina

• Home burial on private property is allowed in South Carolina.

• Check local zoning ordinances before planning a home burial.

• Burial plots should be at least 150 feet from water supplies and 25 feet from property lines.

• Have the county survey and officially designate the burial site on your deed.

• Descendants have legal rights to visit and maintain family graves on private property.

Paperwork in South Carolina

• Death certificates must be filed electronically within 5 days of death.

• The burial-removal-transit permit must be obtained within 48 hours.

• Certified copies cost $12 (includes one copy), additional copies $3 each.

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

• Processing takes 5–7 business days.

Consumer rights in South Carolina

• You’re entitled to an itemized General Price List when inquiring about services.

• You must receive an itemized Statement of Funeral Goods and Services after arrangements.

• File complaints with the SC Board of Funeral Service at contact.funeral@llr.sc.gov or (803) 896-4497.

• For preneed contract issues, contact SC Department of Consumer Affairs: (803) 734-4200.

• Embalming isn’t required by South Carolina law.