Is it OK in GA to bury a body in your back yard? Here’s what the law says
Funeral costs are higher than ever, with a full 2025 funeral costing $8,500 in Georgia, according to the World Population Review. Meanwhile, cremations are much cheaper, but still cost around $2,000. So, what other choices do you have when burying a loved one?
Well, a private home burial on your own property may be an option.
Let’s see if it’s legal first, though:
Is it legal in GA to bury a body in your back yard?
., there are no state laws prohibiting burying a body on your own property in Georgia.
However, there is one county in the Peach State that has specific laws surrounding home burials: Macon-Bibb County. In Macon-Bibb County, you must get a permit.
To get a permit, you’ll need the following:
- Apply for a permit with a Macon-Bibb engineer
- A plat of survey of the property (survey that shows the borders of the property) prepared by a state-registered land surveyor
- The survey must show at least two acres of land for the burial site/cemetery
- The location of the proposed cemetery must be compatible with adjacent land uses, existing or proposed highways and any other elements or factors deemed by Macon-Bibb County to affect the public health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants of the area surrounding the proposed location (such as wells and ground water, the potential for pollution of nearby streams, lakes and other waters)
- A buffer area (at least 10 feet in width) with trees and shrubbery surrounding all sides of the grave site
- A survey that shows the cemetery is not within an area of flood risks
- Clearly marked boundaries with concrete or metal pins
- A private access and exit to and from the site
After you receive your permit, there are even more requirements before participating in a home burial in Macon. Check out the full list online.
Other things to know about home burials
In other parts of the state, there are no specific laws prohibiting home burials, but there are some things to consider.
According to U.S. Funerals Online, checking with your local zoning office is a good idea. You should also clearly map out where your burial site will be located. It is also highly recommended that you plot at least 150 feet away from any water sources and 25 feet away from power lines.
Other considerations to know, as stated on Nolo’s website:
- Embalming is not required in Georgia
- A casket is not required in Georgia, but some sort of container is required
- You don’t have to have a licensed funeral director
Have you or someone you know performed a home burial? Let us know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
