Preparing for DOPL Inspections
What Utah Funeral Service Establishments Should Know
The Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) periodically conducts inspections of licensed funeral service establishments across the state. These inspections are part of DOPL’s responsibility to ensure compliance with the Utah Funeral Services Licensing Act (Utah Code §58-9) and the Funeral Service Licensing Act Rule (Utah Administrative Code R156-9).
Members should be aware that inspections may occur at any time. Taking proactive steps to maintain compliance helps ensure inspections proceed smoothly.
The complete Utah funeral service laws and rules can be found here:
commerce.utah.gov/dopl/funeral-service/laws-and-rules/
Below are several key areas inspectors commonly review.
1. Facility and Preparation Room Requirements
Under Utah Administrative Code R156-9-401, funeral establishments must maintain facilities and equipment in a clean and sanitary condition.
Inspectors may review the preparation room to confirm it includes:
• Proper flooring (tile, cement, or composition surface)
• Adequate drainage and ventilation
• Hot and cold running water
• Proper waste receptacles and sanitary disposal procedures
• Necessary instruments and embalming supplies
• Personal protective equipment for staff
The rule also requires that preparation and embalming of human remains be conducted privately, with access limited to licensed staff, interns, public officials performing duties, and immediate family members when appropriate.
2. Establishment Licensing and Personnel
The Utah Funeral Services Licensing Act (Utah Code §58-9-301) requires licensure to practice funeral service and establishes license classifications including:
• Funeral Service Director
• Funeral Service Intern
• Funeral Service Establishment
• Preneed Funeral Arrangement Sales Agent
During an inspection, DOPL may verify that:
• The funeral service establishment license is current
• Licensed funeral directors or embalmers are supervising services
• Interns are properly registered
• Staff performing regulated activities are appropriately licensed
Keeping copies of current licenses available can help streamline inspections.
3. Preneed Funeral Contracts
Utah law requires that preneed funeral arrangements be documented by written contract.
Key requirements under Utah Code §58-9-701 include:
• Contracts must be written in clear and understandable language
• The contract must include the name, address, phone number, and license number of the funeral establishment
• The funeral home must retain a copy of the contract until at least five years after all obligations are completed
Funds received for preneed arrangements must also be deposited into an appropriate trust account within statutory timeframes.
4. Documentation and Case Files
Inspectors may review case files to confirm proper documentation. Common records that may be reviewed include:
• Authorization for embalming or cremation
• Disposition permits and burial transit permits
• Funeral service contracts
• Preneed agreements
• Other required regulatory documentation
Maintaining organized files helps ensure compliance with state recordkeeping requirements.
5. Facility Operations and Safety
Utah administrative rules also require funeral establishments to ensure:
• Equipment is properly maintained and safely operated
• Compliance with state and local health, fire, and safety codes
• Compliance with OSHA standards, including bloodborne pathogen and formaldehyde exposure requirements
Maintaining proper sanitation and safety protocols protects both staff and the public.
A Reminder to Utah Funeral Professionals
DOPL inspections are a routine part of professional regulation and help ensure consistent standards across the funeral profession. By maintaining compliant facilities, proper documentation, and current licensure, funeral service establishments can be well prepared for an inspection.
The Utah Funeral Directors Association encourages members to periodically review the laws and administrative rules governing funeral service practice.
For the complete statutory and rule framework governing funeral service in Utah, please visit:
commerce.utah.gov/dopl/funeral-service/laws-and-rules/
