Can You Bury a Dog or Cat in Your Backyard or Garden?

Updated 13 November 2026

In England, yes: you can bury a dog or cat in the garden of your own home without asking anyone's permission. In the US it depends on your state, county and city, so check their rules before you dig.

Everything below comes from official and welfare guidance, linked in each answer. It is what that guidance says, not legal advice; if you are unsure, your local council (UK) or local government (US) can tell you the rules where you live.

Can I bury my pet in the garden in the UK?

The Environment Agency says: "You do not need permission to bury domestic pets. You can bury small domestic pet animals such as a dog or a cat on your own land, for example in your back garden." A larger pet, such as a horse, has stricter rules, and your council's animal health office can advise. The Environment Agency's guidance covers England; in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, ask your local council.

The RSPCA adds that the burial must be on land you own. Cats Protection says no formal planning is needed for burying a cat at the home it lived in, as long as you own the land and your vet has said there is no risk to other animals or people.

Can you bury a dog in your backyard in the US?

Often, but not everywhere. The ASPCA says that depending on local laws it may be legal to bury an animal on your own property, and that it is typically illegal to bury an animal on public land such as a park. Rules are set locally, so check with your city or county before choosing a spot.

How deep should I bury my dog or cat?

The RSPCA says the grave should be at least four feet (1.2 metres) deep, and away from water sources. Cats Protection gives at least 1.25 metres deep, and three metres away from water sources, cables and pipes where possible.

What should I wrap my pet in?

The RSPCA suggests a biodegradable material, such as a natural fibre blanket.

Should I ask my vet first?

Yes, if you can. Cats Protection's advice is to bury at home only once your vet has said there is no risk to other animals or people. Your vet can also talk you through the other choices, such as cremation, and PDSA notes the vet can keep your pet's body safe in the meantime.

What if we move house one day?

Cats Protection raises this gently: think about whether you might move in future, and what that would mean for leaving your pet behind. Some people bury their pet in a large pot, which is easier to take with them. Others choose cremation, so the ashes can move with the family; our guide to what pet cremation costs explains the choices.

Can I bury my pet's ashes in the garden instead?

Yes. In England you do not need permission to scatter or bury the ashes from a single pet cremation on your own land, or to make any record of doing so. On someone else's land, ask the landowner first (Environment Agency).

Marking the place

Cats Protection notes that many people plant a bush or tree over the spot, or place a pot or slab there, which also stops other animals digging. If you would like something that stays, our pet memorial stones are cast stone, made to live outdoors through rain and frost, and our care guide explains how to look after one in the garden. If the ashes are coming home instead, our pet urn size guide shows which urn fits.

Sources

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