Frequently Asked Questions

The combined experience of our funeral director staff is over 30 years. Our license number is: FD-1824, the licensed manager of this establishment is Mary Ann Robertson (FDR 2160). We have found the following questions to be some of the most frequently asked.

How is this low price for direct cremation possible?

Several factors make our low price possible. Our parent company owns the crematory. Over 30 years of combined experience allows us to work as efficiently as possible. We are effectively using the internet and advances in telecommunications to save on labor costs.

Where are you located and can I visit your facilities?

Our licensed facility is located at 3101 17th Street SF, CA. We are unable to accommodate visitors at this location in an effort to keep our price low for you. All paperwork is accomplished via fax or Internet.

How will I know my paperwork has been received by City Cremation?

If you fax us your paperwork, you will receive a confirmation call. If you use the internet you will receive an email reply.

Are Medical Examiner Removal Fees included in your price of $775.00?

No, medical examiner fees are in addition to our fees. We will use the credit card you provide to pay the medical examiner for their fees. You may call 553-1694 and inquire about these fees. We will do the same.

Do you remove remains from a private residence or convalescent hospital?

Our parent company offers this serivce at $982.70 City Cremation is unable to offer this service.

Once remains are removed from the hospital or medical examiner’s office where do they go?

Our licensed storage facility is at the same location as our crematory: 1094 Yerba Buena Ave., Emeryville, CA 94608, Crematory License 58.

Can I see the remains of my loved one before they are cremated?

This service is not available through City Cremation but is available through our parent company at their price. Please call 431- 9940 and ask for Pat.

How many certified death certificates do I need?

You need a certified death certificate for any asset that may be transferring from the deceased to someone else as the holding institution needs a certified death certificate to establish death has occurred. Life Insurance, real estate, stock, bond, bank accounts, motor vehicle are all examples of assets that may change because of someone’s death.

Can I get certified death certificates at a future time?

Yes. Death certificates are available from the SF Health Deptartment, 101 Grove St.

How am I sure the ashes I get are the ashes of my loved one?

City Cremation uses tags, labeled cremation containers, sequentially numbered metal disks, journals, and heat monitoring charts on the cremation machines in conjunction with one another to ensure proper identification of remains. It is state law that one remains are cremated at a time.

How long can a hospital hold someone’s body after they have died?

Contrary to what hospitals may tell you, they must hold remains until a funeral director claims them. In the state of California, every licensed hospital is required to provide refrigerated storage for deceased human remains. Consider your options carefully.