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 for the location of these burial grounds, including setbacks from property boundaries and critical areas, and prohibits the sale of burial plots or charging fees for services related to the burial.

Additionally, the bill mandates that property owners record each burial with the county auditor, including details such as the deceased's name, dates of birth and death, and the geographical coordinates of the grave. It requires property owners to disclose the existence of a family burial ground to prospective buyers before selling the property. The bill also allows local governments to regulate or prohibit the establishment of family burial grounds. Amendments to existing laws clarify that family burial grounds are exempt from certain cemetery regulations and define the legal framework for their establishment and management.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 68.05.400, 68.20.010, 68.20.140, 68.50.130