Though cremation laws can vary from state to state, there are several basic ideas and rules that apply to almost every location. Just like any other product or service, there are many laws surrounding cremations in North Versailles, PA designed to help protect consumers and the public. It’s important to learn about these laws so you can be better prepared to make any cremation decisions around your eventual death, or the loss of a loved one.

The most common laws include, but aren’t limited to:

1. Cremation Costs – Crematories are obligated to provide clear and concise descriptions of all services included each cremation price, as people who gave recently suffered a loss might be more susceptible to bad business practices.
2. Authorization – In most states the next-of-kin, or “authorizing agent,” can authorize cremation. The authorizing agent must complete, sign and submit an authorization form before the cremation can take place.
3. Cremation Provider Licenses – All cremation providers are licensed and certified, as there are specific rules and regulations in place to protect consumers and ensure safe handling of the deceased.
4. Casket Requirements – Caskets are not required by law for cremations, but most states have laws stating that a rigid container must be provided for the cremation. These containers only have to be combustible and strong enough to support a body when being placed into the cremation chamber.
5. Permits – You are required by law to have a cremation permit. Once the death certificate is completed and the cremation authorization is filed, the county will issue a cremation permit. Cremation permits cost anywhere from $10 to $40 depending on the county.
6. Cremation Viewing – Families viewing the cremation is not regulated by law, and therefore varies from crematory to crematory. Confirm with your chosen provider as its not guarantees.
7. Cremation Consumer Protections – There are lots of laws protecting cremation consumers, from laws prohibiting crematories and funeral homes making false statements about body guarantees or cremation merchandise purchasing. If you want more information, check with your local or state government.
8. Remain Handling – Laws about what you can and cannot do with cremated remain can vary greatly from state to state. However, most have similar general ideas like they cannot commingle cremated remains unless by deceased’s request or only scatter with appropriate authorization.
9. Body Transportation from State to State – If the body is transported over a period of 24 hours or more after the death, embalming may be required. There are airline funeral shipping businesses that also have specific regulations and rules such as the purchase and use of a designated aircraft mortuary-shipping container.

To learn more about cremation laws in Pennsylvania or about North Versailles, PA cremation services, just get in touch with Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. You can visit us or give us a call to learn more about what we can do for you and your loved ones when it comes to cremation services.