Navigating the administrative and legal requirements after a loss in Philadelphia requires an understanding of the unique consolidated city-county structure of the region. As the central authority for DFS Memorials in Pennsylvania, this hub provides the essential technical data and resources needed to manage final arrangements within the city and surrounding areas.
Philadelphia County Jurisdictional Contact Data
In Philadelphia, the Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO) is responsible for investigating certain deaths and must authorize all cremations occurring within the city limits.
Official County Name: Philadelphia County (Consolidated with the City of Philadelphia)
Medical Examiner Office: Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office
Physical Office Address: 400 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130
Main Contact Phone: (215) 685-7445
Release Hours: Remains are typically released to funeral homes/crematories daily between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
Our local providers coordinate directly with the Philadelphia MEO to ensure all legal release authorizations and medical certifications are secured before the cremation process begins.
Philadelphia County Permitting and Mandatory Fees
Pennsylvania law and Philadelphia regulations mandate specific permits and fees for final disposition.
Non-Burial Disposition Permit Fee: Every cremation in Philadelphia requires a permit issued by the MEO. The current fee is $50.00.
24-Hour Waiting Period: Per 20 Pa. C.S. § 8654, a cremation cannot take place until at least 24 hours have elapsed from the official time of death.
Storage Policy: The MEO will store remains for up to 15 days after identification. If arrangements are not made within this window, the city may proceed with a city cremation.
