The Final Resting Place

You may immediately think of a cemetery as a final resting place. Historically, cemeteries have been the most common choice and many times the only option. Today, there are many options. These options hinge on the method of disposition.

A body can be interred in a cemetery or on private land. (Given the potential implications of burial on private land, be sure to investigate this option fully by contacting an attorney or referencing your state’s statutes.) Cemeteries can be private or public. Private cemeteries can be run by commercial entities or non-profit organizations. Cemeteries can be large to small, large landscaped lawns or small architected memorial gardens. A body can be buried directly in the ground (green burial), in a casket, in a vault: above or below ground, individually or communally.

There are separate options for a body that has been cremated. Like bodies, cremains can be placed in a cemetery or on private land, above or below ground. In either case, cremains are often inurned in columbarium niches. Cremains can also be scattered: in designated scattering bed or in nature. Your state’s statues will dictate what is allowed. Some organizations also have cinuaries, which are community cremain vaults. But since cremains pose no health threat, they can be kept at home. You can also transport them to another geographic destination without any permit.

Lisa S.
August 4, 2010