This bill establishes regulations for the creation and management of family burial grounds on privately owned property in Washington State. It defines a "family burial ground" as an area designated for the burial of human remains, which may include individuals related by birth, marriage, or adoption. The bill allows natural persons to designate their land as a family burial ground, provided they have the written consent of all co-owners if the property is jointly owned. It sets specific requirements regarding the location of these burial grounds, including setbacks from critical areas, easements, and property boundaries. Additionally, it prohibits the sale of burial plots and requires property owners to report burials to the state and county authorities.

The bill also includes provisions for existing family burial grounds, ensuring they are recognized under the new regulations even if they do not meet all the requirements. It amends several existing laws to clarify that family burial grounds are exempt from certain cemetery regulations and taxation provisions. Local governments are granted the authority to regulate or prohibit the establishment of family burial grounds, and property owners must disclose the existence of any family burial ground to prospective buyers before selling the property. Overall, the bill aims to provide a legal framework for the establishment and management of family burial grounds while ensuring compliance with local regulations and state reporting requirements.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 68.05.400, 68.20.010, 68.20.140, 68.50.130
Substitute Bill: 68.05.400, 68.20.010, 68.20.140, 68.50.130
Engrossed Substitute: 68.05.400, 68.20.010, 68.20.140, 68.50.130, 84.36.020