Natural Burial Options

What Makes a Burial "Natural"

Natural burial, also called green burial, returns the body to the earth without the chemical preservation, metal caskets, and concrete vaults that define conventional burial. The core principles are straightforward: no embalming with formaldehyde-based fluids, biodegradable containers only, no concrete vaults or grave liners, and natural grave markers like native stones or plantings instead of polished granite headstones.

The goal is decomposition, not preservation. The body becomes part of the soil ecosystem rather than being sealed away from it.

Your Main Options

Shroud burial. The simplest approach. The body is wrapped in a natural fabric shroud, typically cotton, linen, or wool, and placed directly in the earth. Some families use a rigid board underneath for lowering. This is the least expensive burial option and the method used in many Jewish, Islamic, and Baha'i traditions.

Biodegradable casket. Plain wood caskets made from softwoods like pine or willow, wicker baskets, or even cardboard containers all qualify. The key requirement is that the casket breaks down naturally without leaching chemicals into the soil. No metal hardware, no synthetic linings, no lacquer or polyurethane finishes.

Conservation burial. The most structured version of natural burial, conservation cemeteries operate as protected land trusts. Your burial fee funds permanent land conservation, and the cemetery operates as a nature preserve with no conventional headstones, manicured lawns, or artificial landscaping. The Green Burial Council certifies these sites.

Hybrid cemetery sections. Some conventional cemeteries now offer dedicated green burial sections where outer containers are waived and biodegradable caskets are required. This lets families choose natural burial without traveling to a dedicated green cemetery.

Cost Comparison

Natural burial typically costs significantly less than conventional burial. Without embalming (which averages $390), a metal casket ($2,500 to $10,000), and a burial vault ($1,500 to $10,000), the main costs are the grave plot and the opening and closing fee.

A plain pine casket runs $200 to $1,000. Shrouds cost under $300. The plot and interment fees at a natural burial ground vary by location but are generally comparable to or less than conventional cemetery rates.

For comparison, a traditional burial with viewing averages $9,170 nationally, rising above $11,000 with a vault. A natural burial can bring the total below $3,000 in many areas.

Legal Requirements

In the majority of US states, families have the legal right to care for their own deceased without hiring a funeral director. This includes preparing the body at home, filing the death certificate, and transporting the remains to the burial site. Nine states require a licensed funeral director for at least part of the process: Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, and New York.

State rules can require embalming or refrigeration in specific circumstances. For example, California requires embalming or refrigeration within 24 hours; Colorado, Florida, Indiana, New York, and Texas require one after 24 hours; Iowa and Michigan require embalming after 24 hours and do not accept refrigeration as an alternative. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, a provider can claim embalming is legally required only when state law requires it under the circumstances, so ask for the applicable rule.

Home burial on private land is legal in most states, though local zoning ordinances may restrict it. California and Indiana prohibit home burial on private property entirely. Some states require minimum acreage or setback distances from water sources and property lines.

Finding a Natural Burial Ground

The Green Burial Council maintains a directory of certified providers at three levels: hybrid cemeteries that offer some green options, natural burial grounds that meet full green standards, and conservation cemeteries that protect the land in perpetuity.

When evaluating a site, ask what types of containers are permitted, whether outer burial containers are waived, what kinds of grave markers are allowed, and whether the land has permanent conservation protection or could be sold and developed later.

The Funeral Home Selection Guide covers natural burial alongside conventional options, helping you compare providers and understand which requirements are state law and which are private cemetery policy.