Learn the requirements and how to get your business permit to dispose of human remains.
Who needs a permit?
You must have a final disposition permit if you:
- Dispose of human remains as a business
- Don't have the legal authority to dispose of reduced human remains (this authority is usually limited to direct family members)
How to get your permit
You must pay the final disposition permit fee when you apply. Choose the method that works best for you.
Apply for your permit online
You'll receive your permit faster by applying and paying online.
Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW)
Don't have a SAW account? Learn how to create a SAW account.
Apply for your permit by mail
Complete a Final Disposition of Human Remains Permit Application form.
Mail your application with a check or money order for the permit fee (payable to the Department of Licensing) to:
Funeral and Cemetery Board
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3777
Seattle, WA 98124-3777
Please allow 7–10 business days, not including mailing time, to process your application.
When your permit expires
Your permit expires on January 31 each year. Please note:
- If you first applied less than 120 days before January 31, then your permit expires the next year
- If you first applied more than 120 days before January 31, then you must renew on January 31
Helpful permit information
The Governor's Office for Regulatory Innovation and Assistance (ORIA) publishes details about the most common required permits and links to regulatory agencies.
Visit the Permit Timeliness website for more information.