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Council adds columbarium definition and limits crematoriums in zoning code update
Summary
Lockport staff proposed and council moved to include a columbarium definition in the municipal code, require columbariums to be sited within cemeteries or on parcels concurrently zoned as cemeteries, and restrict standalone crematoriums to be part of funeral homes or veterinary clinics under size limits.
Lockport City Council reviewed zoning code changes to recognize columbariums and define how crematoriums may be permitted. Staff said the change addresses state law that requires property to be zoned for cemetery use before cemetery‑related uses can be approved.
The ordinance adds a definition for columbarium, makes columbaria a special‑use category tied to cemetery zoning (or concurrent rezoning), and treats crematoriums as allowable only within funeral homes or veterinary clinics where cremation comprises no more than 50% of the building square footage; stand‑alone crematoriums would not be allowed. The update also includes related regulatory and signage provisions.
Staff noted existing crematoriums in the area are connected to funeral homes and that the city may rarely see new cemetery zoning proposals. Council members said the change clarifies code language and reflects state law; the ordinance was placed on the consent/action agenda.
Quote: "This recognizes columbariums... and if you don't recognize it, it's expressly prohibited from occurring," said Lance.
