About a third of cremated remains end up being buried rather than scattered or kept in an urn at someone’s home. It’s the option for anyone who wants to be cremated but also wants a permanent final resting place.
Since it is permanent, buying a cremation burial plot is an important decision. Don’t rush the choice if you don’t have to! There are a lot of points to consider, and in an effort to make it easier we’ve explained the biggest considerations below.
Types of Plots For Cremation Burials
These days you have options when it comes to cremation burial plots. The three most common types of cremation burial plots are:
- In-Ground Plots at a Traditional Cemetery: These are smaller than full-body burial plots and designed specifically for urns containing cremated remains. They may be in special sections within larger cemeteries.
- Conservation and Green Burial Plots: What goes in the ground is very important with conservation and green burial plots. The goal is to have as little impact as possible, so the container for the cremated cremains should be biodegradable. Some cemeteries may also require that the cremated remains be treated prior to burial so that they are easier on the environment.
- Memorial Gardens: A memorial garden is a landscaped outdoor space within a cemetery where cremains can be scattered or buried.
The Logistics: Location and Availability
Like a plot for traditional burial, the location matters when you’re looking for a cremation burial plot. The first thing most people consider is the cemetery’s proximity to family, but once you find a cemetery the location within it matters as well. Some sections may be more peaceful, have shade, be easier to access or in view of features like ponds.
Availability is a variable that varies from cemetery to cemetery. Some popular or well-established cemeteries may have very limited space, even for smaller cremation plots. You may also find that securing a family section or adjacent spots is difficult. If having multiple plots together is important, always ask about available options and whether you can reserve them or need to go ahead and purchase them.
Cemetery Reputation For Management and Maintenance
If you are choosing to bury cremains you most likely plan to visit the cemetery on a regular basis. When that’s the case, how the cemetery is managed and maintained can make a real difference.
To get a feel for how well a cemetery is managed and maintained, start by reading reviews or talk with people you know who have loved ones buried there. This will give you an idea of how satisfied visitors are with the experience. Make sure to ask what maintenance responsibilities are handled by the cemetery staff and what is expected of family members in terms of maintaining individual plots.
You’ll also want to visit the cemetery in person and speak with the staff to get a first-hand look at how well things are managed. How helpful and transparent the staff is will be a strong indicator of what can be expected. Take your time to explore the grounds and venture off the beaten paths to see how well things are maintained in areas that aren’t near the entrances and pathways.
The Details: Rules, Requirements and Costs
Once you’ve decided on the type of cremation burial plot you want and have identified a suitable cemetery it’s time to get into the details. Many people are surprised to find that there are often special requirements and rules for burial within a cemetery. There can also be additional costs that have to be accounted for upfront and in the long-term.
Rules and Requirements
- Some cemeteries have rules for the container types that can be buried (biodegradable, stone, or metal urns)
- The cemetery may only offer specific types of memorialization during the burial.
- There may be burial liner requirements, although this is less common for cremation plots.
- Cemeteries often have headstone or marker restrictions, especially at conservation and green cemeteries.
- Many cemeteries are accessible at any time, but see if there are any restrictions.
- Ask if the cemetery plans to update any of its policies in the near future.
Factors That Affect Cost
- Earlier when we discussed plot location we mentioned some plots are near unique features or in a more peaceful spot. Getting that prime location will usually cost more.
- Purchasing a family section or adjacent plots could also affect the cost per plot.
- Besides the cost of the plot itself, check for perpetual care fees and maintenance costs.
- Ask for a clear price list with all of the associated costs that you’ll be required to pay.
Pre-Planning vs At-Need Purchase of Cremation Burial Plots
Burial plots have always been an aspect of death care that can be planned out well in advance. Some people decide to purchase a plot for themselves and loved ones decades before they’re actually needed. This is called a “pre-need” plot purchase. It comes with a number of benefits like:
- Better pricing
- Being able to pay for the plot over time
- More selection
- Less stress on the family after the death
Unlike other death care services, there tends to be less risk with buying a cremation burial plot in advance since you are purchasing something tangible.
The alternative is buying a plot “at-need”. This is when the plot is purchased at the time of the death. Since the plot is needed immediately it can come at a higher cost and the options may be limited.
Checklist of What to Consider Before Buying a Cremation Burial Plot
- Do you want a traditional, conservation/green or memorial garden plot?
- Is the location meaningful, accessible and peaceful for your family?
- What are the full costs for both upfront for the plot and long-term management fees?
- What are the cemetery’s specific container and marker rules?
- Can you reserve plots for family members nearby?
- Does the cemetery have a good reputation and helpful support?
- What type of maintenance is the family expected to handle?
- Are there advantages to purchasing a plot in advance?
If you need help arranging affordable, eco-friendly death care services prior to burial, Cremation.Green is ready to be at your service. We’re available any hour of the day to provide information and answer your questions about the cremation process so you can plan accordingly.