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Apply for a funeral establishment licence

Last updated on August 31st, 2026

Use this service to apply for or renew a funeral establishment licence with the Environmental Health Department.

Who is this licence for

Owners of a funeral establishment needing to obtain or renew a funeral establishment licence.

If your business is not licensed, Environmental Health will contact you and inform you that you need to apply. They may issue a notice if an application is not made.

Before you start

You will need:

  • the dimensions of your preparation room
  • maximum number of bodies that can be stored
  • a list of embalmers who work at your establishment, giving each person's name and gender (staff list)

Read the Health Services (Embalmers and Funeral Directors) Regulations 1984 for the full legal requirements.

When to apply

Your licence expires on December 31st each year. You need to renew it by the first business day in January each year. It is suggested that you submit your application by December 1st.

Complete the form

There are 2 ways to apply for a funeral establishment licence. You can:

  1. Apply for a licence online.

    Allow about 15 minutes to complete the form.

    Start now

  2. Get a paper application from the polyclinic
    You must complete it by hand and submit the application to the polyclinic associated with the district where the funeral establishment is located. If you require further information or assistance, contact the polyclinic - information can be found at the bottom of this page.

Cost

There is neither a cost to apply, nor to receive your licence.

What happens after you apply

  • Environmental Health will review your application and an officer will be assigned to your case.
  • An inspection of the premises must be conducted. More than one visit may be required before the issuing of a licence.
  • If there are any contraventions of the health services regulations, you will be given instructions to rectify them within a specified time period. Until the contraventions are rectified, you will not be issued a licence. Failure to comply may result in receiving recommendations to cancel the licence, close the establishment, or be subject to prosecution.

During the inspection, you will need to show:

  • processes for the cleaning and sanitation of equipment and premises
  • ventilation
  • proof that all embalmers and directors have current licences

Obtaining your licence:

  • If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email and the Environmental Health Office will mail your licence. In addition, you can also request to collect it from your assigned polyclinic.

Once you receive your licence, it must be displayed in the establishment.

Contact

If you need help, contact the relevant Environmental Health Service office.