Funeral services in Singapore are regulated to ensure proper management of the deceased and public health safety. Whether the funeral is organised by a family or a professional service provider, there are some legal standards that must be met. These consist of the death registration procedure, burial or cremation permits, and adherence to rules established by pertinent government organisations. Families using a funeral provider must make sure the business is aware of and abides by all legal requirements.
Death Registration
The first legal requirement in any funeral process is the registration of death. Under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, all deaths must be reported within 24 hours. If the death occurs in a hospital, the hospital will issue a Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD). A certified doctor must be called to issue the CCOD for deaths at home. Once the CCOD is obtained, the next-of-kin must register the death at any police station or the nearest ICA-authorised registration centre. Upon registration, an official Death Certificate will be issued, which is mandatory for all further arrangements, including engaging funeral services and obtaining cremation or burial permits.
Permit for Cremation or Burial
Cremation and burial are the two approved methods of body disposition in the city-state. A permit must be secured before proceeding with either. Cremation permits are issued by the National Environment Agency (NEA), and cremations must be done at designated facilities such as the Mandai Crematorium. Families opting for burial must abide by the NEA requirement of having the bodies be buried only at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery. A burial permit is issued upon death registration, and all burials are subject to a 15-year lease policy, after which remains may be exhumed. Funeral service providers typically assist in the application for such permits and ensure compliance with NEA regulations.
Handling and Transportation of the Body
The NEA regulates the handling, storage, and transportation of human remains. If a professional funeral director is engaged, they must be licensed and experienced in transporting the body from the place of death to the wake venue or mortuary. The body must be stored under hygienic conditions and transported in a vehicle designed for this purpose. Obtaining approval for the use of HDB or other public spaces for holding a wake is also necessary. Funeral services must adhere to local by-laws concerning noise control, duration, and placement of tents or structures.
Regulations on Wake and Funeral Ceremonies
Wakes can be held in HDB void decks, private homes, or funeral parlours. However, prior approval from the relevant Town Council or property management is required. Wake duration is usually between one to five days. Noise restrictions and public order must be maintained. Religious rites performed during the funeral must not disrupt public peace or violate any existing laws. Some funeral services also provide liaison with religious leaders and ensure compliance with religious customs and legal guidelines.
Cremation, Burial, and Ash Storage Procedures
Cremated remains may be stored in a columbarium managed by NEA or private operators. Applications for niches must be submitted along with the death certificate and cremation permit. Grave allocation for burials is based on availability, and only certain religious groups are permitted long-term burial under special conditions. Remains may be exhumed after the lease period and re-interred or cremated. Families using a funeral service company can rely on them for the timely processing of documents and coordination with government agencies.
Conclusion
Compliance with legal requirements is essential when arranging funeral services in Singapore. Every stage is subject to stringent restrictions, from registering deaths and acquiring licenses to making sure the body is handled with care and following ceremony guidelines. Families can more easily navigate these requirements and ensure everything is handled within the law by working with a competent and certified funeral provider.
Contact Casket FairPrice and let us help you ensure all legal and ceremonial obligations are handled professionally and with dignity.
