Navigating the administrative and legal requirements after a loss in Portland, Gresham, Troutdale, Fairview, or the surrounding Multnomah County area requires an understanding of specific Oregon jurisdictional rules. As the central authority for DFS Memorials in the Pacific Northwest, this hub provides the essential technical data and resources needed to manage final arrangements throughout the county.
County Jurisdictional Contact Data
In Multnomah County, the Medical Examiner’s Office is responsible for investigating certain deaths and must authorize all cremations occurring within the county borders.
Official County Name: Multnomah County
Medical Examiner Office: Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Office
Physical Office Address: 13333 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97230
Main Contact Phone: (503) 988-0055
Release Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Our local providers coordinate directly with the Multnomah County ME to ensure all legal release authorizations and medical certifications are secured before the cremation process begins.
Permitting and Mandatory Fees
Oregon law and Multnomah County ordinances mandate specific permits and fees for final disposition by cremation.
Medical Examiner Transportation Fee: If the Medical Examiner takes jurisdiction and transports your loved one to their facility, a mandatory fee of $215.50 is charged to the estate or family.
County Filing/Permit Fee: Multnomah County charges a local filing and permit fee of $30.00 for every death registered in the county.
24-Hour Rule (Refrigeration): Per Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR 830-030-0010), remains held longer than 24 hours after death must be either embalmed or refrigerated at 36° F or less.
Wait Time: While there is no state-mandated “waiting period,” Oregon law requires a death certificate to be signed by an authorized physician within 48 hours of death (ORS 432.133). Cremation can only proceed once the ME or Health Department issues the authorization.
