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Council introduces zoning change to allow alkaline hydrolysis (water-based cremation) as accessory use
Summary
The council introduced a zoning text amendment to permit alkaline hydrolysis as an accessory use to funeral homes and in crematories, aligning county zoning with recently enacted state law.
The Montgomery County Council introduced Zoning Text Amendment 25‑09 on June 17 to allow alkaline hydrolysis—a water-based alternative to flame cremation—as an accessory use for funeral homes and as an allowed use in crematories.
Councilmember Fanny Gonzalez, the lead sponsor, said the state legislature recently passed enabling legislation (sponsored by state delegates and senators from Montgomery County), and local zoning must be updated so funeral-home operators can offer alkaline hydrolysis in the county. “This is basically a green way to die,” Gonzalez said, noting the change responds to state authorization and local funeral-home interest.
County planning staff (Miss Nadeau) said the use will be allowed as an accessory to funeral homes and as an allowed use in crematory facilities, which is why zoning text amendment approval is required. Sponsors said further details and regulations would be handled by the Department of Permitting Services and relevant county agencies as providers seek permits.
ZTA 25‑09 was introduced and scheduled for a public hearing on July 22, 2025. Sponsors asked residents and industry stakeholders to learn more and participate in the public process.
