Burial Without a Casket
What are your options?
If you are considering or are already in the process of planning your burial in advance, it's possible that you've wondered whether you or your loved one can be buried without a casket. It's a logical question with some conflicting answers online. Here at MemorialPlanning.com, we pride ourselves on being the funeral and burial planning experts, and have created this page to help you understand your options.
So, can you be buried in the ground without a casket? The short answer in most scenarios is no. But those other scenarios is why this question is so complicated. Let's try to break it down.
One alternative is a natural burial. Instead of a traditional casket, a person is buried in eco-friendly, biodegradable material. Otherwise, people who choose to be buried without a casket most commonly do so for one for three reasons: religious, financial, or environmental.

Find a Cemetery to Learn About Burial Options Near You
There are so many options to consider when planning or pre-planning your funeral or the funeral of a loved one. You may want a natural burial, green burial, eco-friendly burial, or another alternative burial option such as cremation. If you want to learn more about whether you can be buried in the ground without a casket in your state, click here to contact a cemetery in your area. Talk to a burial planning expert. They will help you to select a burial plan that reflects your values and will leave a lasting legacy. You can also find out about being buried above ground here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Legally Be Buried in the Ground Without a Casket?
Laws differ between states, but the majority require that people be buried in a casket. These laws do not typically specify what the casket be made of. This... read more
Do Natural Burials Require a Casket?
A natural burial does not use embalming fluid, a casket, or a burial vault. The deceased is placed directly into the earth. Natural burials allow the... read more