So You Wanna Bury Uncle Bob in the Backyard? A Guide to Georgia's Not-So-Resting Places
Let's face it, funerals are expensive. You could spend enough on lilies and laminated prayer cards to put a down payment on a haunted mansion (which might be a better fit for Uncle Bob anyway). So, it's natural to wonder: can I skip the whole overpriced ceremony thing and just bury Uncle Bob in my own backyard?
Well, hold on to your overalls, because the answer in Georgia is a knee-slappin' "maybe!" Buckle up, because we're about to navigate the wild world of Peach State burial codes.
Can You Bury Someone In Your Yard In Georgia |
The Good News: Uncle Bob CAN Become One with Your Lawn (Sort Of)
Believe it or not, there's no state law in Georgia explicitly banning backyard burials. Now, that doesn't mean you can just dig a hole and shove Uncle Bob in like yesterday's trash. Local laws and zoning ordinances might have a different tune, so you'll need to check with your county or city to see if they've got any restrictions.
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Think you've got a two-acre spread perfect for a family cemetery? Hold your horses! Even if your local laws are cool with it, you'll probably need a permit - and that usually involves stuff like fancy land surveys by folks who know more about dirt than your average potato farmer.
The Bad News: Bureaucracy is a Real Buzzkill
Let's be honest, dealing with permits and regulations can be about as exciting as watching paint dry (although, depending on the paint color, that could be strangely mesmerizing). There might be hoops to jump through, so be prepared for some paperwork.
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Plus, consider the logistics. Digging a decent-sized hole is hard work, especially in Georgia clay. And let's not forget the whole "not attracting wild animals" thing. Do you really want raccoons having a Bob-b-q in your backyard?
Alternatives to the Backyard Bonanza
If the whole backyard burial thing seems like a bit much, fear not! Here are some other, slightly less creepy, options:
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- Communal Cemeteries: They might not have the personalized touch of your backyard, but they're a whole lot easier to maintain.
- Natural Burial Grounds: These eco-friendly cemeteries are all about going green, perfect for the nature-loving Uncle Bob.
- Cremation: It's a space-saving option, and you can always keep the ashes in a cool urn - think miniature Viking ship or Bob's favorite coffee mug.
Remember, the most important thing is to honor Uncle Bob's wishes. If he always dreamed of being a backyard barbecue (the non-literal kind), then by all means, investigate the local regulations. But if paperwork and angry possums aren't your thing, there are plenty of other ways to say goodbye.
How-To FAQ on Georgia Burials:
How to find out about local burial laws? - Contact your county or city clerk's office. They'll have the dirt (pun intended) on any ordinances.
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How to get a permit for a private burial? - This varies by location, but expect to involve your local government and a land surveyor.
How to choose a natural burial ground? - Search online for "natural burial grounds near me" They're becoming increasingly popular.
How to plan a cremation? - Funeral homes can help you navigate the cremation process and urn selection.
How to deal with grieving relatives who really want Uncle Bob in the backyard? - This might require some tactful negotiation. Offer a compromise, like planting a memorial tree in his honor.