Home funerals in New York

New York does not require a funeral director, so a family can legally handle the entire process themselves if they choose to. The family can file the death certificate directly, without going through a funeral home. Embalming is not required, which keeps a home funeral or a simple burial straightforward from a legal standpoint. Burial on private land is not allowed here — final disposition has to happen at a licensed cemetery. New York passed legislation in 2020 allowing families to handle funerals without a funeral director. However, the process has additional administrative requirements and home burial is not permitted — all dispositions must occur at licensed facilities. Review the current state guidelines at the vital records office and contact your local registrar before starting.