Oregon Laws on Home Burials for Pets
Oregon state law is silent about home burials of pets, and it is allowed in most local jurisdictions, including Deschutes County, though sometimes with local restrictions or limitations.
ORS 601.140 stipulates that dead animals may not be buried within ½ mile of a dwelling or ¼ mile of a running stream of water, and carcasses must be disposed of by burial, burning or removal within fifteen hours of death. Buried carcasses must be interred at least four feet below ground, covered with quicklime and at least four feet of earth. Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) also has regulations and recommendations concerning burial of animal remains near wells, septic systems, and streams. These also pertain mainly to farm livestock and wild animal remains, but common sense suggests that even small pet remains should not be disposed of near wells or other water sources.
- Bury at least 4 feet deep and place a layer of Quick Lime at the bottom of the hole
- Do not dig over buried electrical lines, sewer or water lines or near trees or building foundations
- Pet burials must be on your privately owned property or with the consent of the property owner (burials of euthanized pets is illegal on public, city, county or government owned land)
