Funeral planning in Florida
What to do, what it costs, and what Florida actually requires, in plain words, one step at a time.
Florida guide
Read straight through, or jump to your situation. Save this link to come back anytime. Updated Apr 2026.
Good to know:No funeral director required - families can handle arrangements directly
Tip:Order at least 10 certified death certificates for legal and financial matters
What things cost in Florida
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.
- Florida does not require a licensed funeral director - families can handle arrangements themselves
- The Division of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services provides free consumer assistance
- Florida has strong consumer protections for preneed funeral contracts
You have the right to be involved in caring for your loved one as much or as little as you choose.
- Florida requires a 48-hour waiting period after death before cremation
- There's an additional 24-hour wait after the cremation authorization is signed
- The medical examiner must give written consent before cremation can proceed
- All legal next-of-kin must sign the cremation authorization and be in agreement
- Ashes must be claimed within 120 days or the crematory may dispose of them
The 48-hour waiting period is longer than most states. Plan accordingly if time is a factor.
- Home burial on private property is allowed - no state law prohibits it
- Family cemeteries under 2 acres are permitted and don't require licensing
- Check local county and city zoning ordinances before planning a home burial
- You'll need a burial-transit permit from the county registrar within 5 days of death
- Consider future property sales - buyers must be informed of any burials
The funeral director (or person acting as one) must file the death certificate within 5 days
The medical certifier has 72 hours to complete the cause of death section
Certified copies are $10 each at county health departments
We recommend ordering at least 10 copies for insurance, banks, and legal matters
Processing takes 3-5 business days; rush orders cost an additional $10
State and county probate rules vary. Use this as a starting point, not legal advice.
- You have the right to an itemized statement of all costs
- Funeral homes must provide a General Price List before discussing arrangements
- Contact the Division of Funeral, Cemetery, and Consumer Services at 850-413-3039
- In-state toll-free: 800-323-2627
- The Preneed Funeral Contract Consumer Protection Trust Fund protects prepaid contracts
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.