Burial Division
Fees:
- Burial Permit Fee: $15.00
- Funeral Director’s Annual License Fee: $100.00
For additional details and required documentation, please refer to the Funeral Director Annual Permitting Information Form (PDF).
Burial Permits
The Burial Permit Program at the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services coordinates with funeral homes, hospitals, and families to issue burial permits for individuals who have passed away within the City of Springfield, including both residents and non-residents. A burial permit is required before a body can be buried, cremated, or otherwise laid to rest. We work closely with funeral directors, medical providers, and families to ensure that all required documentation is completed accurately and in accordance with Massachusetts law.
ALL DEATH CERTIFICATES ARE OBTAINED THROUGH THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE LOCATED AT CITY HALL (36 Court Street, Springfield, MA 01103).
Under Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L. c. 114, § 45), a burial permit is required prior to disposition:
“A body may not be buried, cremated, or transported without a permit issued by the local board of health or its authorized agent.”
- A physician or medical examiner completes and signs the death certificate
- The funeral director submits the required documentation
- The Springfield Department of Health and Human Services reviews and issues the burial permit
Verification and Process Overview
Before issuing a burial permit, the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services ensures that all required documentation is complete and compliant with state and local laws. This includes:
- Verification that the burial permit is properly completed
- Confirmation that the cause of death has been certified by a physician or medical examiner
- Review for compliance with all applicable state and local regulations
Once documentation is verified, the process proceeds as follows:
- Death Certificate Filed: The death certificate is completed and filed with the appropriate authorities
- Burial Permit Issued: The Department reviews and approves the burial permit
- Authorization for Disposition: Once approved, burial or cremation may legally proceed
- Permit Required for Final Arrangements: The cemetery or crematory must receive the burial permit prior to disposition
- Coordination with Funeral Directors: The Department works closely with funeral directors to ensure all requirements are met
Coordination with Funeral Directors
The Burial Division works closely with licensed funeral directors to ensure all requirements are met. This includes:
- Approving and tracking burial permits
- Managing annual licensing for funeral directors operating in the City of Springfield
For more information, including the annual fee and required documentation, please refer to the Funeral Director Annual Permitting Information Form (PDF).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are green burials allowed in Springfield or in Massachusetts?
Yes. Green burials are permitted in Massachusetts, provided they comply with applicable state laws and local cemetery regulations. Please refer to the additional resources linked here for more information.
Are home (private land) burials allowed in Springfield or in Massachusetts?
No. Home or private land burials are not permitted in Massachusetts. All burials must take place in an approved cemetery in accordance with state law.
Support public health and safety
Burial regulations play an important role in protecting public health and ensuring that all final arrangements are handled safely, respectfully, and in accordance with the law.
In Springfield, burial practices are guided by Massachusetts law—particularly Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 114, which governs cemeteries, burials, and cremation.
The Springfield Department of Health and Human Services helps ensure:
- Compliance with state and local regulations
- Proper handling and documentation of remains
- Coordination with funeral homes, hospitals, and cemeteries
- Protection of public health and community safety
For more detailed information, please refer to the applicable Massachusetts General Laws related to burial and disposition.