Step 1
The first step is to decide if Sòlas is the right place for you. We are not a “conventional” cemetery, and we have regulations that must be followed in order to be buried in our preserve. Please review our “Rules and Regulations” page for specifics. Unfortunately there are no exceptions to these policies, as they are required in order to maintain our official certification of “Natural Burial Cemetery” under the Green Burial Council. We acknowledge that these rules may seem very strict, but it is truly our desire to offer a natural return to earth and these policies help ensure minimal disruption to the environment.
You can find information about Natural Burial in general and about Sòlas Natural Burial Preserve on the “FAQ” page. You are welcome to walk the preserve with our staff. If you have additional questions please contact us via email or phone and we would be happy to assist you.
Once you’ve decided on Sòlas Natural Burial Preserve, the next step is to purchase a burial plot. Navigate to our “Available Plots” page, and look over the plots. Our staff will help you pick a plot and complete the purchase. You may purchase multiple plots at a time for additional family members if you would like the plots to be next to one another. (Please note: if you purchase one plot now and additional plots at a later time, we cannot guarantee the plots will be next to one another.) Thank you for trusting us to provide your final resting place.
Step 2
The next step is to plan your service. You can choose to purchase from a list of native trees from our local landscaping partner that we will provide to plant after the burial. You may also purchase a biodegradable headstone or Digital Headstone if you choose. Our staff will walk you through the paperwork and assist you in completing your purchase.
Step 3
When it is time to bury the deceased in the plot you have purchased, you will need to reserve a burial time. We require a minimum of 48 hours notice in order to prepare the site and be ready for your burial. Please note: for full body internment you are required to provide 4-6 pallbearers to assist in transportation of the body from the vehicle to the gravesite. We recommend asking a few friends or family members to be involved, 4-6 people who are strong enough to lift and carry the deceased about 10-20 feet.
Step 4
Decide your plan for burial. Most people choose to use a funeral home to manage their needs. You are welcome to use any funeral provider, but keep in mind embalming and metal/treated/stained caskets are prohibited. Please look at our “Rules and Regulations” page for details on what is prohibited in our burial preserve. Since embalming is prohibited, funeral homes/mortuaries can use alternatives such as refrigeration, dry-ice, or a closed casket to store the body until burial. Please inform your chosen funeral home of your plans.
Step 5
For a fee, we will prepare the burial site for you and close the site after your service. Please note, your family/friends will still be responsible for moving the deceased from the vehicle to the burial site. Our staff will provide instructions and direction and will be on site. There will be a lowering device set up over the grave when you arrive. Your pallbearers will be instructed on how to move and place the casket/bier/shroud on the lowering device. Once your service is complete and your family and friends have left the property, we will lower the deceased and close the grave. We do not operate the lowering device or refill the grave until after all attendees and family have left the property in order to maintain a safe area as we will use a large electric excavator and need to maintain a safe space for moving and filling the site.
Step 6
The grounds and Celebration Shelter close promptly at 4:00pm. Please instruct your guests to conclude your service and exit Solas prior to 4:15. We take pride in maintaining our grounds and need time to restore the site after your service.
Step 7
Relax in the knowledge that your loved one is at peace in Sòlas Natural Burial Preserve. Please note, when you purchase a lot, you are actually leasing the land until February 1, 2121. After February 1, 2121, the land may become a dedicated as a public park so everyone can use the paths and trails. Sòlas is open daily from dawn to dusk, if you visit you must remain on the marked paths. We hope you will celebrate the life of your loved one through a peaceful return to nature.
Answers to most questions can be found on our FAQ page or Rules page. If you need more information or assistance please contact us via phone or email and we would be happy to help you.