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Commission tables proposed family‑cemetery zoning rules after lengthy concerns about enforcement, heirs’ property and flood risk
Summary
Staff presented a draft amendment to allow and conditionally regulate family cemeteries; commissioners and residents raised questions about heirs’ property, signage, minimum lot sizes, flood‑zone restrictions and enforcement; the item was tabled for a workshop and further drafting.
The Jasper County Planning Commission on July 14 tabled a proposed zoning-text amendment to create standards for family cemeteries after extended discussion about how to ensure permanent identification, prevent burial in flood zones and address heirs’ property and enforcement.
Staff explained the draft would distinguish family cemeteries from commercial perpetual‑care cemeteries and proposed conditions including a minimum two‑acre lot for a family cemetery, a maximum of 20 plots, no commercial use, survey and platting with recordation, and avoidance of special flood hazard areas. Commissioners, residents and staff debated practical issues: whether heirs’ property could be surveyed and recorded, how conservation easements and state law on cemetery abandonment apply, whether signage and fencing should be required, and who would enforce restrictions.
Given the number of open questions, a commissioner moved to table the amendment and hold a workshop so staff can return with clarified language and additional guidance. The motion to table carried on a voice vote.
Commissioners also discussed state law provisions governing cemetery removal and access during the conversation and asked staff to return with comparative language from neighboring jurisdictions and sample plat language.
