Can you legally bury your pet in your backyard? Here’s what North Carolina law says
.jpeg "Princess Langdon’s grave at the Charlotte Pet Cemetery at 7135 South Tryon St.")
While we all wish our beloved pets could stay with us forever, the time inevitably comes when we must say goodbye.
Holding a memorial service for your pet can offer comfort and help you start the healing process. Many pet owners find solace in having a physical memorial, like a headstone, where they can visit and honor their furry friend.
What does North Carolina law say about burying pets on private land? Here’s what to know.
Can you bury a pet at home (or on your own property) in NC?
Yes, you can legally bury your pet on your property in North Carolina, but there are a few exceptions:
State law requires pets to be buried at least three feet below the ground within 24 hours of their death.
Pets cannot be buried less than 300 feet from any flowing stream or public body of water.
State law also prevents the removal of the carcass of your pet from your property without written permission.
Where can you legally scatter your pet’s ashes in NC?
According to state law, ashes can be placed or scattered:
In a crypt, niche or grave
In a scattering garden
On private land
On uninhabited public land
At sea or any other public waterway
Ashes scattered at sea must be placed more than three nautical miles from shore, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. That means you can’t stand on the beach or on a pier and throw ashes into the water.
Federal law also prohibits placing items that are not decomposable in the water, such as plastic flowers and wreaths.
How to find an NC pet cemetery or crematorium
If your furry friend passes away and you don’t want to bury them at home, you can take them to a pet crematorium or pet cemetery, the city of Charlotte says.
The city recommends looking for services that will come and pick up your pet for you.
This story was originally published August 5, 2024 at 11:22 AM with the headline "Can you legally bury your pet in your backyard? Here’s what North Carolina law says."
