What legal aspect must cemeteries comply with concerning remains?

Cemeteries must comply with state laws and regulations concerning remains because these laws govern various important aspects, including the proper handling, burial, and cremation of human remains. Each state sets its own legal framework concerning how cemeteries operate, ensuring that they adhere to health and safety standards, respect for the deceased, and the rights of the bereaved. This includes regulations on obtaining permits, maintaining records, and ensuring proper maintenance of the cemetery grounds.

While aesthetic regulations may dictate how a cemetery looks, they do not directly address the handling of remains. Federal environmental guidelines may apply in broader contexts, but state laws are specifically tailored to address the unique needs and implications of handling human remains at the local level. International standards may also exist, but they would typically not be directly applicable to the operational realities within a specific state, making local compliance absolutely essential.