Belowground, common grave requirements: how long may a common grave remain open and what is the minimum final cover?

• A. Not more than 30 days and at least 4 feet of soil
• B. Not more than 60 days and at least 2 feet
• C. Not more than 90 days and at least 6 feet
• D. Not more than 15 days and at least 1 foot

Answer: (A)

The rule is about keeping belowground common graves secure and sanitary to prevent odor, scavenging, and groundwater risks. Limiting how long a grave can stay open to 30 days reduces exposure to the elements and deters pests and disease spread, while requiring at least 4 feet of soil as final cover provides a solid barrier against surface disturbance, minimizes odor escape, and guards against water infiltration. Together, these numbers reflect protective disposal practice for carcasses. Other options either don’t provide enough cover or allow the grave to stay open too long, which would increase risk to people, wildlife, and the environment.