Appendix 4 – cremation requirements in Scotland

Requirements for cremation

As set out in the Cremations Regulations (Scotland) 1935 as amended and the Certification of Death (Scotland) Act 2011:

The applicant (usually next of kin or executor) must sign a completed application form (Form A) which must be countersigned by a householder who knows the applicant in order to apply for cremation.

The completed Form A is required in addition to the Certificate of Registration of Death (Form 14), provided by the registrar, before cremation can take place.

Where a death has occurred in England or Wales:

• the death must be registered in England or Wales
• the Form 4 (The Medical Certificate) and Form 5 (Confirmatory Medical Certificate) to be completed by the doctors in England or a Form 6 (Certificate of Coroner)
• a Form 103 (Permission to move out of England and Wales Form) is required from the coroner
• a Scottish Form A or Form 1 from England or Wales (Application for Cremation) will need to be completed by the applicant

In addition the crematorium must also keep its own register of all cremations which take place on the premises. 

 Involvement of the Procurator Fiscal

If the Procurator Fiscal has ordered a post-mortem examination or undertakes a Fatal Accident Inquiry, the Procurator Fiscal completes a certificate (Form E1) which is required in addition to the Form 14, provided by the registrar, and the application for cremation (Form A) before cremation can take place.