Can you bury a pet at home in your backyard in NC? Here’s what state law says
.jpeg "Princess Langdon the cat’s grave at the Charlotte Pet Cemetery, 7135 South Tryon Street.")
As much as we want our pets to live forever, there’s going to be a day when we have to say goodbye to them.
Holding a memorial service for your pet before laying them to rest can be a great way to begin the healing process. Many pet owners like to have a physical location where they can visit their pets, such as a headstone, where they have a place to pay their respects.
When your pet passes away, you may want to keep them close to home by burying them on your property. But is it allowed in North Carolina? Here’s what state law says.
Can you bury your pet at home (or on your own property) in NC?
It is legal to 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.
Other options for pet burials
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 October 11, 2023 at 1:18 PM with the headline "Can you bury a pet at home in your backyard in NC? Here’s what state law says."
