Can You Bury a Body on Private Land in Maine? The Legal Answer

No. In Maine, it is illegal to bury human remains on private property, including homesteads. State law mandates that all burials occur in a licensed cemetery or crematory.

Legal Basis

This requirement is codified in Title 22, Chapter 1371, Section 1 of the Maine Revised Statutes. The law aims to ensure proper documentation, public health protection, and respectful, permanent maintenance of burial sites.

What This Means for Landowners

• Family burial plots on private land are not permitted, regardless of acreage or ownership history.
• Cremated remains may be kept or scattered on private property with landowner permission, but interment of a body requires a licensed facility.
• Violations can result in criminal penalties and civil liability.

If you're planning end-of-life arrangements in Maine, consult a licensed funeral director or the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program (which oversees burial regulations) for guidance on legal options.