What is the maximum amount of time a body can be kept before final disposition in Washington State?

In Washington State, the law stipulates that a body must be disposed of within 30 days following death, unless a permit for longer storage is obtained. This regulation is in place to ensure that the handling of remains is done in a timely manner, maintaining public health standards and respect for the deceased.

While there are typically provisions in place to extend this period if necessary, the general rule is that final disposition should occur within that 30-day timeframe. This helps to prevent issues related to decomposition and potential health hazards associated with longer holding times.