How long is a disinterment permit valid once it is issued?

A disinterment permit is a critical document in Pennsylvania funeral law that authorizes the exhumation of human remains from a burial site. The validity of this permit is crucial to ensure that the disinterment process is conducted legally and ethically. In Pennsylvania, once a disinterment permit is issued, it remains valid for 72 hours. This time frame is established to allow adequate time for the necessary arrangements to be made and to ensure that all legal and procedural requirements are met.

This aspect of the law serves to balance the need for prompt action during the disinterment process with the necessity of adhering to legal protocols. Understanding the time limitation of the permit is essential for funeral directors and families as it governs the timeline for executing the disinterment after receiving the permit.