Pet Cemetery Regulations Explained

Pet cemeteries have existed since the late 1800s—Hartsdale Pet Cemetery in New York opened in 1896. If you are considering a pet cemetery, here is what you should know.

What pet cemeteries offer

**Burial plots:** Dedicated space for your pet remains (body or ashes)

**Headstones/markers:** Permanent memorials with names and dates

**Perpetual care:** Ongoing maintenance of grounds

**Visitation:** A place to return and remember

Costs to expect

**Burial plot:** 00-,000+ depending on size and location

**Interment fee:** 50-00 (cost of actual burial)

**Casket:** 0-00 (often required)

**Headstone/marker:** 00-,000+

**Perpetual care fund:** Often included in plot price

Total cost: Often ,000-,000+ for full burial with marker

What is regulated

Pet cemeteries are regulated at the state and local level. Common requirements:

Questions to ask before choosing

The closure concern

Some pet cemeteries have closed, leaving families without access to graves. Ask about:

Alternatives to traditional pet cemeteries

**Cremation with home keeping:** Keep ashes in an urn at home

**Scattering:** At a meaningful location

**Memorial gardens:** Some cemeteries offer scattering gardens

**Home burial:** Where legal

Your next steps