Local Funeral and Burial Regulations

Overview

Arizona state law and Phoenix municipal codes govern various aspects of funeral services, burial, and cremation. Understanding these regulations helps ensure compliance and smooth funeral planning.

Key Regulations

Death Certificates

Requirements:

Must be filed within 72 hours of death
Required information includes cause of death, personal information, and medical certification
Can be obtained from Arizona Department of Health Services

Governing Authority: Arizona Department of Health Services

Contact: (602) 364-1300

Transportation

Requirements:

Permit required for interstate transportation
Licensed funeral director must oversee transportation
Special requirements for international transport

Governing Authority: Arizona Board of Funeral Directors

Contact: (602) 542-3095

Burial Requirements

Requirements:

Burial permit required
Minimum depth requirements for graves
Specific cemetery zoning regulations

Governing Authority: Maricopa County Environmental Services

Contact: (602) 506-6616

Consumer Protection

Your Rights Under FTC Funeral Rule

Right to receive itemized prices over the phone
Right to get a written, itemized price list
Right to choose only the goods and services you want
Right to use an alternative container for cremation
Right to provide your own urn or casket
Right to make funeral arrangements without embalming

Reporting Violations

To report violations of funeral regulations, contact:

Arizona Board of Funeral Directors: (602) 542-3095
Federal Trade Commission: 1-877-FTC-HELP
Arizona Attorney General's Office: (602) 542-5763