TodayPet crematory wins variance
Lack of impact cited in property owner’s request for conditional-use permit.
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Article RatingA pet crematory proposed in rural Hopewell Township passed its first test Monday night when supervisors granted a conditional-use request to establish the business in an agricultural zoning district.
Supervisors approved the request by a 3-0 vote following about 30 minutes of explanation from Jamie Pyne, who testified that his crematory will generate almost no additional vehicle traffic on Pin Oak Lane and produce no smoke, odor or noise.
Where ash will go
Pyne told supervisors most of his home-based business will come from veterinarians with deceased pets to dispose of. Pyne said the ash remains will be returned to pet owners or disposed in the Cumberland County Landfill.
Pyne said dead animals are typically frozen and enclosed in plastic bags and stored at veterinary offices. He will provide pickup service.
He said in “extreme occasions” he would deal directly with pet owners.
There were no objections from Pyne’s nearest neighbors — his father Jay and Wayne Hensel — who both attended Monday’s hearing.
Hensel, whose home is about 110 yards from the proposed crematory, said he had reservations when he first heard of Pyne’s intentions, but “Jamie explained it all, and I have no concerns now.”
How it works
Pyne described the incineration process as a manufactured system that includes two burning chambers that attain temperatures of 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit.
He says the crematory renders animals up to 250 pounds, and that he expects to cremate “dogs and cats and whatever vets ask me to.”
He said farm animals like cattle and horses are far too large for his system to handle.
Pyne said he will remove a small “garden” shed from his property and relocate a larger shed to make room for a 30-foot by 30-foot building to house the crematory. He plans to add a 630-square parking area to accommodate the van he will use for pickup, and the small volume of other traffic the business generates.
Conditions attached
Pyne’s request was granted with two conditions attached:
• He provide documentation to the township that he has completed required Department of Environmental Protection certification.
• If the business expands to require paid employees or produces consistent motor traffic, the operation be relocated to a commercially zoned location.
