An Overview Of Cemeteries And What Services They Offer

Cemetery Responsibilities

• Prepare the burial site
• Place the body in the grave, mausoleum space, or crypt
• Close the grave, mausoleum space, or crypt
• Install a headstone or grave marker

In addition, cemeteries will obtain the necessary licenses to bury the body and will keep the burial record. After the burial, the cemetery will maintain the gravesite, including maintaining any grass and landscaping around the grave.

The Four Types Of Cemeteries

• Public cemeteries, the most common type, which are for-profit cemeteries (independently or corporately owned).
• Religious cemeteries, which are non-profit cemeteries owned by a religious organization.
• District or municipal cemeteries, which are non-profit cemeteries owned by the city or county.
• National or veterans cemeteries, which are government-run cemeteries for the burial of veterans and their families.

Burying Cremated Remains

If you plan to bury cremated remains, cemeteries have columbariums (mausoleums for cremated remains) and urn gardens where ashes can be buried.

Related Resources: How to Choose a Cemetery | Guide: Finding a Cemetery