Resident seeks permit for private family burial at 526 Gaza Road; council refers ordinance review

Cynthia Green appeared before the Burrillville Town Council to request a permit to establish a private family burial plot on her property at 526 Gaza Road. She told the council the plot would likely serve her and her husband and possibly descendants; she said she is willing to follow any town guidelines. “It’s gonna be the corner… it’s gonna be for my husband, myself,” Green said when describing the proposed 8-by-8 area and family intent.

The council reviewed written guidance from a 2001 solicitor memo read into the record, which noted that “the establishment of cemeteries is governed by chapter 18 of title 23 of the Rhode Island General Laws” and that a permit, survey, access easement and a perpetual-care plan are typical requirements. Members discussed access, easements and the town’s long-term maintenance ability if the property changes hands. One councilor urged a formal easement and clear boundary delineation; another suggested naming a committee to draft criteria if private burials will be permitted more broadly.

After questions about trust status, potential future owners and the cost of surveying and excavation, the council voted to refer the petition to the ordinance subcommittee for further review and drafting of required application elements. The mover and seconder of the referral were noted on the record; the council requested that the petitioner attend subcommittee meetings when the item is scheduled.

The referral will allow staff and the solicitor to update the town’s permit checklist (survey, right-of-way, perpetual-care fund, fencing or plantings, and easement language) and bring back recommended ordinance language for a future meeting.