Navigating the administrative and legal requirements after a loss in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, or the surrounding Fulton County area requires an understanding of specific local jurisdictional rules. As a primary service area for DFS Memorials, this hub provides the essential technical data and resources needed to manage final arrangements throughout the county.
County Jurisdictional Contact Data
In Georgia, the Medical Examiner of the county where the death occurred must certify and authorize the cremation before it can proceed.
Official County Name: Fulton County
Medical Examiner Office: Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office
Physical Office Address: 186 Elizabeth St SW, Atlanta, GA 30312
Main Contact Phone: (404) 613-4400
Our local providers coordinate directly with the Fulton County ME to secure the necessary physician signatures and legal release authorizations required for the cremation permit.
Permitting and Mandatory Fees
Georgia law and Fulton County ordinances require a specific review process before a cremation can be performed.
Cremation Permit Fee: There is no separate permit “tax” in Fulton County, but the Medical Examiner must review the case and sign the authorization.
48-Hour/24-Hour Rule: Per Georgia Code § 31-21-4, a cremation cannot be performed until at least 24 hours have elapsed from the official time of death.
Storage Fees: If remains are held at the Medical Examiner’s facility for an extended period, daily storage fees may apply.
