A homeowner’s decision to turn their property into a graveyard has raised some eyebrows, with many wondering if the move is motivated by the desire to save on taxes.
While homeowners often seek ways to reduce expenses—like tax exemptions or being more energy-efficient—burying a family member on the property is far from a typical cost-saving strategy.
An Unexpected Discovery in an Airbnb
In a viral video with over 1.1 million views, content creator Aimeé Martin (@aimeebmartin) revealed a surprising find during her stay at an Airbnb in Texas. While showing off the property’s pool, Martin moved the camera, and what appeared to be a large rock among the gravel was actually a gravestone.
The stone read: “E.L. ‘Bill’ Rathburn, 1913-1967,” marking the final resting place of someone who had passed away many years ago. Martin humorously commented, “When the Airbnb forgets to mention something” and joked that her kids hadn’t noticed it. She described the house as “amazing,” adding, “RIP Bill!”
Is It Legal to Bury Someone on Your Property?
The idea of burying a person on private property may seem bizarre, but it is legal in many states across the U.S. Surprisingly, many states do not have laws prohibiting personal burials.
However, it’s crucial to check with local authorities, including the municipality, health department, and city clerk, as certain permits and zoning laws are required. These laws can cover everything from burial depths to requirements for embalming and refrigeration.
Tax Exemptions for Burial Grounds
In some states, turning a part of your property into a burial site can even lead to tax exemptions. Texas, California, and Illinois have provisions that allow private burial grounds to be exempt from property taxes, provided specific conditions are met.
In Texas, for example, land used exclusively for home burial can qualify for a tax exemption as long as the owner isn’t profiting from the burial.
In California, burial grounds with six or more human bodies may lose their exemption unless they are strictly used for burial purposes. Similarly, Illinois offers tax exemptions for properties used exclusively for non-profit cemetery purposes.
A Controversial Discovery
Viewers of Martin’s video were left shocked by the unexpected presence of a grave in the Airbnb property. While some found the discovery fascinating, others questioned the legality and ethics of using a burial site as part of a rental property.
The debate over whether this move was motivated by tax savings or a genuine desire for a peaceful resting place continues.
While it’s certainly unusual, burying someone on your property isn’t as rare as it might seem, particularly in states that allow private burials. However, before going down that path, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications, from permits to property tax exemptions.
Whether this homeowner’s actions were motivated by tax breaks or simply an unconventional decision remains a mystery, but it certainly makes for an intriguing story.
