Is embalming required by law?
Friday, November 10, 2023
Embalming is only required by Pennsylvania law under certain circumstances. If it is the desire of the family to have a public viewing of the deceased, the law requires that the body be embalmed if the viewing occurs after 24 hours following death. Embalming may also be required if the deceased cannot be buried within 24 hours and refrigeration is not available. Finally, the 28 Pa. Code § 27.203 states, “…a body of a person who had died of …communicable diseases, it shall be the duty of the undertaker… to disinfect thoroughly by arterial and cavity injection with approved disinfectant fluid…”. 28 Pa. Code § 27.203. In situations when a communicable disease is present, cremation may be an alternative to embalming.
Previous Posts
How included should children be in funerals?
This is a great question that often gets asked. For the record, I am not a licensed psychologist, counselor, or even a parent. However, my study and observation have provided me with se...
What is meant by Green Burial?
Green burial is an alternative method of disposition that allows the remains of a person to return back to the earth naturally. Ideally, green burial minimizes the impact disposition has on the env...
Are vaults required in Pennsylvania?
Vaults or other types of outer burial containers are not required by federal or Pennsylvania state law to be placed in the ground prior to a casket being buried. However, most cemeteries in Lancast...
Why are people of the Jewish faith buried so soon after death?
There are various sects of Judaism, each with slightly different customs and practices. Jewish funeral customs are based on their belief and understanding of life, death, soul (neshama), and afterl...
How should I dress for a funeral?
In the past, custom dictated that immediate family wore black clothing to the funeral of a deceased family member. While other relatives and friends didn’t necessarily need to be dressed in bl...
What happens to the money when we pre-pay our funerals?
In Pennsylvania, funeral directors are required by law to deposit in escrow or trust the entire amount of the monies received by the funeral director for future expenses. None of this money is avai...
What is the PA state law regarding funeral processions?
As one might expect, each state has its own laws regarding funeral processions. In Pennsylvania, each vehicle in the procession must have its headlights lit and emergency lights flashing as well as...
What happens if I die away from my hometown?
Although it is seldom that death occurs when traveling for business or pleasure, it occasionally happens. The short answer to the question is, “Call the funeral director of your choice in you...
The thing about “Closure”
The longer I am a funeral director the greater disdain I have for the word “closure” as it is used in the context of one’s grief. Many well-meaning individuals, and even professionals, often offer ...
What happens to money I pre-pay if you are no longer in business or you sell your business?
Nearly every person who pre-funds their funeral will ask this question, and rightfully so. It’s wise to know how your money will be invested and what safeguards are in place to protect it for its i...
Have a Question?
Comments