What Happens When a Cemetery Gets Full?

Cemeteries are revered locations where people go to pay their respects to departed family members. However, what happens after a cemetery fills to capacity? This raises concerns about how cemeteries use their space, what options there are for burial, and what solutions are available for people who wish to bury their loved ones close to them.

When a cemetery is fully utilized, new burials are typically no longer permitted. People will therefore need to make alternative burial arrangements for their loved ones. Some cemeteries, however, might have room set aside for future usage or permit double-depth burials, when two people are interred in the same plot. Some cemeteries may also decide to enlarge their holdings by buying neighboring land or adding new parts to the cemetery.

To make the most of their available area, cemeteries may also use various burial techniques. For instance, certain cemeteries may offer niche or smaller plot graves for cremation remains. Others might provide “green” burials, which bury the deceased without a coffin or embalming to take up less room. A cemetery may be forced to close if it is unable to employ alternate burial techniques or expand its land. In this scenario, the cemetery will continue to care for the grave and its surroundings but will no longer permit new interments.

Each state has its own rules on burial practices. Under specific circumstances, it is acceptable to be buried on your own land in Arkansas. The burial site must be at least 200 feet away from any well or stream, and the property must be held by the individual who wants to be buried there.

Another alternative for burial is a mausoleum, which is generally seen in cemeteries. These constructions are elevated and have space for numerous urns or caskets. Mausoleums are a cheap alternative to buying many plots of ground and can be either private or public.

In conclusion, a cemetery will stop taking new graves after it is fully utilized. Cemeteries may alter their burial practices or enlarge their grounds to take advantage of available space. A cemetery could be shut down if it is unable to do so. The laws governing interment on private land vary from state to state, while mausoleums may be a more inexpensive choice. In the end, it’s crucial to weigh all of your alternatives and choose what will be best for you and your loved ones.