Home burial is a deeply personal and meaningful choice that allows families to lay their loved ones to rest on their own property. This practice, which harkens back to early American traditions, offers an intimate and eco-friendly alternative to conventional burial methods. If you are considering home burial in Wake, Orange, Durham, Alamance, or Chatham Counties, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to proceed.
Understanding Local Regulations
In Wake, Orange, Durham, Alamance, and Chatham Counties, the Planning and Zoning Departments place few restrictions on property owners considering home burial. However, it is crucial to verify specific requirements, especially if you live within city limits, where additional regulations or restrictions may apply. Additionally, you should check with your County’s Environmental Health Department for any setback requirements from wells or streams to ensure compliance with local health standards.
Local County Planning Departments
Wake
- (919) 856-6310 336
- Fayetteville Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Orange
- (919) 245-2598
- 131 W. Margaret Lane, Suite 201 Hillsborough, NC 27278
Alamance
- (336) 570-4063
- 201 W. Elm Street Graham, NC 27253
Durham
- (919) 560-4137
- 101 City Hall Plaza, Ground Floor Durham, NC 27701
Chatham
- (919) 542-8285
- P.O. Box 54 Pittsboro, NC 27312
Preparing For Home Burial
Once you have confirmed the regulatory requirements, you can begin preparing for the home burial. Here are key considerations:
- Shrouding the Body: Shrouding the body is a traditional and environmentally friendly way to prepare your loved one for burial. You can use a family quilt, which adds a personal touch, or opt for a biodegradable shroud. These materials ensure that the body will return to the earth naturally, in harmony with the environment.
- Biodegradable Caskets: Working with a local woodworker who specializes in making biodegradable caskets is another excellent option. These caskets are crafted from natural materials that decompose over time, reducing the environmental impact. A locally made casket can also be a beautiful and unique tribute to your loved one.
- Digging the Grave: You have several options for digging the grave. While the grave can be dug by hand, this can be physically demanding and time-consuming. Alternatively, you can rent an excavator or hire a local gravedigger to assist with the process. Ensure that the grave meets any depth requirements specified by local regulations to prevent disturbance and promote safe decomposition. Most gravesites should be at least 50 feet from a well or stream. Please confirm this setback with your local Environmental Health department.
Long-term Considerations
Home burial is not only a significant decision for the present but also for the future. Here are some long-term considerations:
- Access for Heirs: It’s important to note that heirs may have access to the grave in perpetuity. This can provide a lasting place of remembrance for your family. However, this access could potentially impact the property’s value if it is sold in the future. Prospective buyers may have concerns about the presence of a grave on the property, so it’s wise to consider this aspect carefully.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of the burial, including the exact location of the grave and any related documentation. This information should be shared with heirs and future property owners to ensure that the grave is respected and maintained.
- Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance of the burial site is essential to preserve its dignity and appearance. Regular upkeep ensures that the site remains a peaceful and respectful resting place for your loved one.
Home burial offers a deeply personal and environmentally conscious way to honor your loved ones. By understanding and adhering to local regulations, preparing thoughtfully, and considering long-term implications, you can create a meaningful and sustainable resting place on your own property. If you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the relevant county departments or local professionals who can guide you through the process.