Local Funeral and Burial Regulations
Understanding Arizona and Phoenix-specific funeral and burial regulations, permits, and requirements.
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
- 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
- Permit required for interstate transportation
- Licensed funeral director must oversee transportation
- Special requirements for international transport
Governing Authority: Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Licensing (funeral industry licensing and regulation moved from the former Arizona State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers to ADHS in 2023)
Contact: (602) 542-1025
Burial 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 Department of Health Services, Bureau of Licensing: (602) 542-1025
- Federal Trade Commission: 1-877-FTC-HELP
- Arizona Attorney General's Office: (602) 542-5763