What Do You Bury an Urn In?

When burying an urn, most families place it inside a burial vault or urn container to protect it underground. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Urn Burial Vault

• A burial vault is a protective outer container that houses the urn in the ground.

• It prevents the earth from collapsing around the urn and protects it from moisture, pressure, and shifting soil.

• Often required by cemeteries, especially for metal or ceramic urns.

2. Urn Grave Liner

• A lighter version of a vault — still offers protection but may not be fully sealed

• Used when vaults aren't mandatory

3. Biodegradable Burial Pods

• For green burials, urns made of natural materials (like bamboo, salt, or paper) can be buried directly in the ground

• These are meant to break down naturally over time, with no outer container needed

4. Cemetery Requirements

• Every cemetery has its own rules.
  Some require urn vaults, while others allow direct burial for biodegradable or cremation-safe containers.

Final Answer

Most urns are buried in a burial vault or grave liner to protect the urn and meet cemetery regulations. For eco-friendly burials, you can often bury the urn directly if it’s biodegradable.

Related FAQs

• Can I bury a without a vault?
  Answer: Some cemeteries allow it, especially for green burials. Check with the cemetery first.
• How deep is an urn buried?
  Answer: Usually 3 to 3.5 feet deep, depending on local laws and cemetery rules.
• Can I bury an urn on private property?
  Answer: In many states, yes — but always check local zoning laws before doing so.