Natural, Green Burial in Texas: Is it Legal?
Nine times out of ten, when we’re talking about natural burial in Texas, the very first question is: Is it legal?
In case that’s your question too, the short answer is YES! Let’s walk through some laws you need to know and a few details that will put your mind at ease.
Legal Considerations for Natural Burial in Texas
Is Embalming Required in Texas?
Embalming — a process many associate with conventional funerals — is not required by Texas law for natural burials. This exemption reflects the state’s accommodation of green burial practices, where avoiding embalming chemicals supports ecological sustainability. In a circumstance that a body must be transported by an airplane, hearse, or train, it would generally need to be embalmed. However there are special containers that can be used to transport bodies that have not been embalmed.
Natural, Green Burial is a Dignified, Affordable Option
Adherence to municipal bylaws and cemetery rules is important for us. We work closely with a licensed funeral director experienced in green burials and offer guidance to families every step of the way. We’re also happy to work with your chosen funeral home. If your loved one is currently with a funeral home and you wish to have a natural burial at Countryside, please call us right away so we can help guide the funeral home through natural burial practices.
We are dedicated to helping you provide a dignified, affordable option that respects both your loved one and the environment. Whenever possible, advance planning with Countryside is recommended, so that when death comes, it can be met with the greatest ease and peace of mind.
Natural Burial Brings a Sense of Peace
Families choosing natural burial are intentionally making their final gesture one of harmony with the natural environment, allowing the body to return to the earth naturally. We hear from families time and time again that this act of consciousness and kindness towards Mother Nature brings them a profound sense of peace. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your questions — and you are always welcome to visit Countryside Memorial Park.
Chrysta Bell Zucht is an internationally known Actor, Musician and the Steward of Countryside Memorial Park. She has always shared her father’s passion for Natural Burials, and upon his unexpected death in 2009 had the soul-satisfying experience of giving him the green burial he had always wanted. She remains deeply dedicated to Countryside and has vowed to continue to offer it as a serene, peaceful place for eco-conscious families to bury, memorialize and celebrate their Beloveds.
Music adds a memorable and deeply moving element to any ceremony, especially if it is music that your Loved One loved.