Funeral planning in Delaware
What to do, what it costs, and what Delaware actually requires, in plain words, one step at a time.
Delaware guide
Read straight through, or jump to your situation. Save this link to come back anytime. Updated Apr 2026.
Good to know:Disposition must occur within 24 hours unless the body is embalmed or sealed
Tip:Order up to 10 certified death certificates - you'll need them for various accounts
What things cost in Delaware
Typical ranges for the South Atlantic region. Your local prices will differ, so always ask for an itemized quote.
Direct cremation
Gravely estimate$1,200–$2,700
Cremation with service
Survey data$5,200–$7,000
Traditional burial
Survey data$6,800–$9,200
Green burial
Gravely estimate$2,400–$5,600
How we got these numbers
Direct cremation: 20–45% of the 2023 NFDA South Atlantic regional cremation service median, rounded to the nearest $100. This is not an NFDA direct cremation median.
Cremation with service: Planning band of ±15% around the 2023 NFDA South Atlantic regional service median, rounded to the nearest $100.
Traditional burial: Planning band of ±15% around the 2023 NFDA South Atlantic regional service median, rounded to the nearest $100.
Green burial: 30–70% of the 2023 NFDA South Atlantic regional burial service median, rounded to the nearest $100. This is not an NFDA green burial median.
Cremation-with-service and traditional-burial planning bands are ±15% around 2023 NFDA South Atlantic regional medians, rounded to the nearest $100.
Direct cremation is a Gravely planning estimate equal to 20–45% of the applicable NFDA cremation service median.
Green burial is a Gravely planning estimate equal to 30–70% of the applicable NFDA burial service median.
These are regional or national planning ranges, not state-specific prices or provider quotes. Cemetery, monument, merchandise, and local provider fees may be separate. Ask providers for a current itemized General Price List.
Where did the death happen?
Jump straight to the steps for your situation.
- Delaware requires a death certificate to be registered within 3 days of death
- The Delaware Board of Funeral Services regulates the industry and protects consumers
- Delaware recently updated laws to include natural organic reduction as a disposition option
The Board of Funeral Services exists to protect you. Don't hesitate to ask questions or request itemized pricing.
- Delaware requires a waiting period of 24-48 hours after death before cremation
- A death certificate must be registered before cremation can occur
- Next of kin must identify the deceased and sign a cremation authorization form
- All crematories must be licensed by the state
- A casket is not required - an alternative container is acceptable
- Home burial on private property is allowed in Delaware - no state law prohibits it
- You must obtain a burial permit before interment
- Graves must be at least 18 inches deep; deeper for certain infectious diseases
- Family cemeteries must be registered with the Cemetery Board every 5 years
- Check local zoning rules - requirements vary by county
The death certificate must be registered within 3 days of death
Certified copies cost $25 each (part of the fee goes to a distressed cemetery fund)
We recommend ordering 8-10 certified copies for insurance, banks, and legal matters
Photo ID is required for all requests; copies of ID required for mail requests
Death certificates are restricted for 40 years - only family and legal representatives can request them
State and county probate rules vary. Use this as a starting point, not legal advice.
- You have the right to an itemized General Price List before making any decisions
- The FTC Funeral Rule allows you to buy only the services and goods you want
- Funeral homes must accept caskets purchased elsewhere without extra fees
- Embalming is only required if disposition won't occur within 24 hours and no sealed casket is used
- File complaints with the Delaware Board of Funeral Services under the Division of Professional Regulation
This guide is general information to help you plan, not legal, medical, financial, or tax advice. Laws, fees, and procedures change and can vary by county. Before acting on anything here, confirm the details with your funeral provider, the responsible state or county office, or a licensed professional.