How to get your license: Cemeteries

Requirements

Before applying for a cemetery license, you must meet all of the following requirements:

  • The cemetery must be operated by a corporation established for that purpose. This corporation must be established and adopt the appropriate bylaws before you begin operating the cemetery. (RCW 68.20.010)
  • You must deposit $25,000 in an endowment care fund before selling or disposing of any plot. (RCW 68.40.010)

How to get your license

  1. Contact the city or county where the property is located to see if it can be used as a cemetery.
  2. Dedicate the cemetery property.
  3. Be sure you have met all the requirements for the operating corporation and endowment care fund listed above.
  4. Complete an Application for Authority to Operate a Cemetery.
    • The application must be completed by the corporation.
    • Be sure to provide all the required supporting documents.
  5. Mail the completed application, attachments, and a check or money order payable to the Washington State Treasurer for the application fee to the address on the application form.
Access Washington