What Are the Burial and Cremation Laws in Connecticut?
See who controls final arrangements, cremation and burial rules, and permit requirements in Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Connecticut allows burial on private property. Private burial on private property requires approval from the CT Department of Public Health per CGS 19a-313. The proposed site must have good drainage, adequate distance from water supplies and sewage systems, and sufficient groundwater depth (verified by test holes). A surveyor's plot plan is required. An easement or right-of-way from the street to the burial ground must be recorded on the property deed. The former 350-foot dwelling-proximity rule (CGS 53-332) was repealed effective October 1, 2012, but DPH still considers proximity to nearby dwellings in its approval review. Local zoning ordinances may further restrict or prohibit private burial grounds. A burial permit from the Town Clerk is required for each burial.
Connecticut has a 48-hour minimum waiting period before cremation. A medical examiner or coroner must authorize the cremation before it proceeds. Cremation must be authorized by Person with custody and control per CGS 45a-318; cremation certificate from Chief Medical Examiner, Deputy, associate, or authorized designee required per CGS 19a-323.
No. Natural organic reduction (human composting) is not currently authorized in Connecticut.
Yes. Alkaline hydrolysis (water cremation) is legal in Connecticut.
Connecticut sets a statutory order for who controls the disposition of remains (CGS 45a-318(d)): Person designated in a written instrument per CGS 45a-318(a), then Surviving spouse (unless spouse abandoned the deceased or adjudged incapable per CGS 45a-318(d)(1)), then Surviving adult children — CGS 45a-318(d)(2), and so on. You can also name your own agent to control your remains in a signed, written document before death. You can record those wishes alongside the rest of your estate plan when you create a revocable living trust.
No. Connecticut does not require embalming by law. No state law requires embalming for all deaths. CGS 19a-91 requires that bodies transported by common carrier be washed or embalmed (unless contrary to religious beliefs or customs of the deceased, as determined by the person who assumes custody) and enclosed in a casket and outside box. In cases of death from a reportable communicable disease, additional measures apply per CGS 19a-91. CGS 20-216 requires medical examiner permission before embalming in cases under ME jurisdiction. Refrigeration is an acceptable alternative for preservation.
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Connecticut Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Connecticut probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
