Local registrars are responsible for:
- reviewing the report of death provided by a funeral director or person acting as such to verify that the report is complete and accurate;
- promptly registering complete reports;
- issuing disposition/transit permits;
- fulfilling funeral director orders for death certificates;
- collecting the death certificate fee on behalf of the Commonwealth; and
- receiving, reviewing and transmitting to the Department, paper reports submitted on the "Certificate of Death" H105.143 and “Report of Fetal Death” H105.024 reporting forms.
In addition to the registration and issuance functions described above, local registrars are responsible for the timely submission of monthly reports and certificate fees, and for the proper use, reconciliation, and storage of security stock.
The local registrar must provide their own office space, equipment, and general office supplies. Office equipment and resources includes a computer, printer, secured file cabinet, email account, and internet access. Recommended computer specifications are available upon request. Security stock and disposition permits are provided by the Commonwealth. Office space may be within the local registrar’s residence but must be located within the registration district.
The local registrar must post and maintain consistent, routine business hours, as well as offer emergency coverage by appointment outside of normal business hours.
Local registrars are prohibited from disclosing any information contained in a vital record, except through issuance of death certificates to the funeral director in accordance with the local registrar procedure manual. Any other requests for information or issuance must be referred to the Department.
Upon request, this information can be provided in hard copy.
