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Can you bury a horse?
In England, yes: you’re allowed to bury a horse, whether or not it was kept as a pet, as long as you follow rules that protect water supplies. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, only horses kept as pets can be buried, according to the British Horse Society (BHS). Rules can vary between councils, so check before you dig.
This page is general guidance, not legal advice.
Who to contact first
Contact your local council’s animal health office (often part of trading standards). The council may ask for a map showing where you plan to bury your horse, or have other requirements (gov.uk). The BHS notes that permission can take time, which is one reason to plan ahead.
Rules to protect water supplies (England)
The Environment Agency’s guidance says a horse burial should be (gov.uk):
- at least 50 metres from any well, borehole or spring that supplies water for drinking or food production, including private water supplies
- at least 30 metres from any other spring or watercourse
- at least 10 metres from any field drain
- deep enough that at least 1 metre of soil covers the body
- with at least 1 metre between the bottom of the hole and the top of the water table
It also says not to dig into unweathered bedrock or in areas at risk of groundwater flooding. Your council may set stricter conditions.
Things to think about
- Digging equipment. A horse needs a large, deep hole, which usually means hiring a digger and operator.
- Timing. If permission or equipment takes time to arrange, your horse may need to be collected instead.
- Moving home. A burial is permanent. Some owners choose individual cremation so they can keep their horse’s ashes wherever they live.
If burial isn’t possible, or you’d rather not, see typical cremation prices or request a callback.