Florida's Pet Burial Laws

In Florida, pet owners are generally permitted to bury their pets on their private property, provided they follow specific state and local regulations designed to protect public health and the environment

Pet Burial Options In Florida

Florida Pet Burial Laws:

What Pet Owners Need to Know

In the state of Florida, pet burial on private property is generally permitted, but pet owners must adhere to specific Florida pet burial laws and local health regulations to ensure a safe, legal, and environmentally responsible process.  These laws are in place to protect public health, prevent groundwater contamination, and promote respectful treatment of deceased animals.

Burial Depth and Environmental Considerations

According to Florida Administrative Code §62-701.520 and Florida Statute 823.041, the burial of domestic animals, including dogs, cats, and other pets, must take place at least two feet underground.

This burial depth is essential for preventing scavenging by wildlife and minimizing potential exposure to diseases.

Additionally, the burial site must be above the natural water table, which is particularly critical in Florida due to its high groundwater levels in many regions.

Burying a pet below the water table could result in groundwater contamination, posing a risk to drinking water supplies and local ecosystems.

Local Ordinances May Vary

While these state regulations provide a baseline, local county and municipal governments may impose additional pet burial requirements. For example, some counties in Florida may:

• Restrict burials in urban or residential zones

• Require prior notification or a pet burial permit

• Prohibit burial on rental or leased property

• Designate approved burial zones on rural or agricultural land

Before planning a home pet burial in Florida, it’s essential to contact your county animal services department or local code enforcement office to verify what’s allowed in your area.

Failure to comply with local pet burial ordinances could result in fines or legal penalties.

Legal and Responsible Pet Remains Disposal

Improper disposal of pet remains in Florida—such as discarding remains in trash bins, near waterways, or on public land—is strictly prohibited and may result in criminal charges under local environmental protection laws.

Not only is this practice illegal, but it can also pose serious public health and sanitation risks.

Choosing a responsible burial method helps maintain community safety while honoring the memory of your pet.

Whether burying your pet at home or using professional services, following proper procedures ensures a respectful and legally compliant farewell.

Alternative Pet Burial Options in Florida

For those who cannot—or prefer not to—bury their pets on their property, a variety of legal and respectful pet aftercare services are available across Florida. These include:

• Licensed pet cemeteries, offering individual or communal plots

• Private and communal pet cremation services

• Eco-friendly aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis) providers

• Pet memorial gardens and ash-scattering areas

These alternatives provide peace of mind and allow pet owners to choose memorialization options such as personalized urns, engraved plaques, or keepsake jewelry.

Whether for practical, environmental, or emotional reasons, choosing professional pet burial or cremation in Florida offers a meaningful way to commemorate a beloved companion.