A list of our most Frequently Asked Questions. Have a questions thats not on the list below? Give us a call.
What impact do modern burial practices have on the environment?
Each year in the United States, conventional burial contributes approximately:
- 827,000+ gallons of embalming fluid, including formaldehyde
- 90,000+ tons of steel used in caskets
- 30+ million board feet of hardwoods
- 1.6 million tons of reinforced concrete for burial vaults
These materials permanently alter soil, disrupt ecosystems, and require ongoing maintenance that prevents land from returning to a natural state.
(Compiled from statistics by Casket and Funeral Association of America, Cremation Association of North America, Doric Inc., The Rainforest Action Network, and Mary Woodsen, Pre-Posthumous Society)
What is green burial?
Green burial is a return to simple, traditional burial practices that allow the body to decompose naturally and safely, supporting the land rather than isolating from it.
Green burial avoids:
- Embalming chemicals
- Concrete vaults
- Metal or non-biodegradable caskets
Instead, it relies on natural materials and biological processes.
What is the science behind green burial?
Green burial is grounded in soil science and ecology.
Bodies are buried at approximately three feet deep, where soil is most biologically active. At this depth:
- Microorganisms, fungi, insects, and plant roots are abundant
- Natural decomposition happens efficiently and safely
- Nutrients are returned to the soil
- Groundwater is protected
Deeper burial actually slows decomposition and isolates the body from the living ecosystem. Green burial works with nature, not against it
Also see, The Science Behind Green and Conventional Burial PDF by the Green Burial Council
Is green burial affordable?
Yes. A simple green burial often costs a fraction of a modern burial.
A typical modern burial can cost $6,000–$10,000+, largely due to caskets, vaults, embalming, and professional service fees.
Green burial removes unnecessary expenses while restoring family choice, dignity, and participation.
Do I need a funeral home or licensed funeral director in Florida?
No. Florida law does not require a funeral home or licensed director.
The body legally belongs to the next of kin. Families may:
- Care for the body
- Transport the body
- Arrange burial themselves
The same legal requirements apply to families as to funeral directors, we here at GMNP are more than happy to help guide families through the process of a home funeral if desired.
Also, see our friends over at Home Funeral Alliance
View “Green Burials & Home Funerals” pfd from 2003 here:
Is a home funeral legal in Florida?
Yes. Home funerals are legal in the state of Florida.
Florida law does not require families to hire a funeral home or licensed funeral director. The next of kin has the legal right to care for their loved one after death, including washing, dressing, holding vigil, and transporting the body, as long as all state regulations are followed.
Families are responsible for:
- Obtaining a death certificate
- Notifying the appropriate authorities when required (such as the Medical Examiner)
- Ensuring the body is buried or refrigerated within the legal timeframe
Many families choose to work with a funeral home for support, while others choose to handle arrangements themselves. Both options are legal. At GMNP, we are happy to work with families, caregivers, or funeral professionals to ensure burial is handled respectfully and in compliance with Florida law.
What is the first step if a family takes charge after a death?
- Sudden or accidental death at home: Notify local law enforcement, who will contact the Medical Examiner.
- Natural death: A physician may sign the death certificate.
- Hospice care: Hospice staff can legally bypass police and Medical Examiner involvement.
Certified copies of the death certificate should be requested for legal and financial purposes.
What if death occurs at a hospital or nursing facility?
A death certificate is typically easier to obtain. A burial-transit permit is required to move the body.
Families have the legal right to request and care for the body directly. Transportation may be done using a personal vehicle. If transportation services are offered, request written pricing beforehand.
What does Florida law require regarding timing of burial?
Florida law requires that within 24 hours, the body must be:
- Buried
- Embalmed
- OR refrigerated*
*Refrigeration may be achieved through coolers, dry ice, gel packs, or air conditioning.
Can families perform their own graveside service at Glendale?
Yes. Families may hold simple graveside services without professional or commercial involvement. Many families find this deeply meaningful and healing.
Are markers allowed at Glendale?
Yes, with ecological guidelines.
Marker options include:
- Brass or aluminum markers come with every burial made on-site from recycled metal
- Flat stones, up to 4 square feet
- Native trees or plants
Metal markers are melted, poured, and hand-stamped on site from recycled metal using waste motor oil.
Are artificial flowers or decorations allowed?
No. Artificial items damage soil, introduce plastics, and interfere with habitat restoration. To protect the natural fauna and flora, artificial flowers, vases, or decorations placed at gravesites will be removed; we encourage natural, biodegradable remembrances or moments of silence instead.
Can cremated remains be buried or scattered?
Yes. Cremated remains may be buried in biodegradable urns or scattered in approved areas
Do you offer Natural Organic Reduction (human composting)?
At this time, no. Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) is not yet legal in Florida, and therefore we do not currently offer it at GMNP.
That said, we are strong advocates for expanding death care options. If you’d like to help support the movement to legalize NOR in Florida, you can join Fawn in advocacy efforts by visiting her website and getting involved in the legislative push to change the law.
In the meantime, Georgia has legalized Natural Organic Reduction, and some Florida families choose to utilize NOR services there. We have dedicated space to receive soil donations from families after the NOR process, which will be used to grow native plants and support ecological restoration on the preserve.
Can families host gatherings at the chapel?
Yes. Families are welcome to host gatherings at our outdoor pavilion A.K.A The Chapel. free of charge.
This space may be used for:
- Memorials and celebration-of-life services
- Religious or spiritual services
- Family gatherings
- Wedding ceremonies
- Divorce ceremonies (yes, we honor them all)
Please note that the pavilion is a rustic, outdoor space. There is no electricity or running water on site. Outdoor grills are available for use, and we simply ask that all guests clean up after their gathering so the space remains welcoming for others. Outhouses are also conveniently available around the Chapel and throughout the preserve.
Do you perform ground maintenance at the preserve?
We follow what we call the “Bic lighter maintenance system.” Throughout the year, we conduct prescribed burns across the preserve under controlled conditions.
Prescribed fire is a vital land management tool in Florida, especially in longleaf pine ecosystems. These burns:
- Reduce invasive species
- Recycle nutrients back into the soil
- Encourage native plant growth
- Support wildlife and pollinators
- Help prevent destructive wildfires
Outside of these prescribed burns, we only maintain main roadways and hiking trails, allowing the rest of the preserve to remain as natural and undisturbed as possible. This approach helps protect the land and maintain a healthy, functioning ecosystem.
For more information about prescribed burning or land management practices at Glendale, you’re welcome to contact Fawn, our Certified Prescribed Burn Manager, directly.
Is Glendale Memorial Nature Preserve a nonprofit?
Yes. Glendale Memorial Nature Preserve is a 501(c)(13) nonprofit conservation cemetery. Managed by a board of directors.
All funds are reinvested into:
- Land conservation
- Habitat restoration
- Trail and boardwalk maintenance
- Long-term stewardship of the preserve
- Green burial education
How much does a burial at GMNP cost?
| Choosing of a Burial plot | Free |
| Opening and closing of the grave space Which includes 2 small metal markers and a burial map | $1,800 |
| Burial of human cremains Which includes 1 small metal marker and a burial map | $200 |
| Extra large pet burial (100lbs+) | $350 |
| `Large pet burial (50-100lbs) | $300 |
| Small pet burial (less than 50 lb) | $150 |
| Burial of pet cremains | $75 |
Is the preserve open to the public?
Yes. Glendale is open sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year. Self-guided tours are welcome.
How can I learn more or schedule a tour?
To schedule a free guided tour or ask questions about green burial:
Office: 850-859-2141
Fawn (On-site Board Member): 850-842-1876
For even more information on GMNP see our slide show presentation below: