Is it Illegal to Bury a Pet in Your Backyard in New Jersey?

How did this question pop into my mind?

Well, our family dog is 11, and he's slowing down.

He's blind, he's diabetic and has something called Cushing's Disease. He's a lot of work, but he's also worth all of the time and money.

Hopefully, Bo will be around for years to come.

Losing a pet is incredibly difficult, and knowing how to handle their remains can be emotionally challenging.

Many pet owners in the tri-state have wondered whether it's legal to bury their pets at home.

While creating a personal memorial in your yard can feel comforting, there are some significant downsides to consider.

Wild animals or other pets may dig up the remains, which is traumatic and poses health risks.

If your pet had a contagious disease like parvovirus or was euthanized, the chemicals used could be harmful to the animal that comes into contact with the remains.

Heavy rains or flooding can cause erosion, potentially exposing the remains.

No one wants to experience the pain of their pet's resting place being disturbed by natural forces.

Another consideration is whether you'll stay in your current home forever.

If you move, you'll have to leave your pet's resting place behind, which can be emotionally challenging.

The laws for burying pets in your backyard vary from state to state.

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For example, New York is lenient, with no specific state laws around home burial.

However, it’s always wise to check with your local authorities to ensure compliance with city ordinances.

In Pennsylvania, you can bury your pet at home, but it must be done within 48 hours of the pet’s passing to be legal.

Finally, home burial is allowed in New Jersey, but your pet must be buried at least two feet underground. Given the risks, more depth makes sense.

While pet cemeteries can be expensive, costing as much as $5,000, many families opt for cremation instead.

Ultimately, the decision is personal; what matters most is how you honor your pet’s memory.

Whether you create a memorial wall, keep ashes, or find another way to remember them, the love and bond shared will always remain.