Bega Valley Shire Council is proposing to allow up to four burials on certain rural properties without the need for a development application.
The move aims to reduce administrative burdens for grieving families while ensuring environmental and public health standards are maintained.
The proposed policy applies to landholdings of five hectares or more in zones RU1 Primary Production, RU2 Rural Landscape and C3 Environmental Management.
It aligns with existing requirements under the NSW Public Health Regulation 2022, which allows burials on certain private land with Council approval.
Approval is conditional on the site not impacting domestic or drinking water supplies.
"Navigating complex approval processes during the grieving process can be extremely difficult," Director of Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison said.
"The proposed changes aim to make it simpler for families with suitable land while ensuring protections for the environment and water sources. It's a policy that offers clarity and peace of mind."
This draft policy and procedure will be exhibited for a period of at 28 days (27 August 2025 to 23 September 2025). To allow sufficient time for feedback, public submissions can be received until 7 October 2025.
If no objections or significant changes are required, Council officers will be able to finalise the proposal without needing to bring it back to Council.
Scattering or burial of ashes on private land remains exempt from Council approval.
For more information and to leave feedback, visit Council's Have Your Say webpage.
