Top Questions to Ask Your Cemetery Before Installing a Headstone

Choosing and placing a headstone is a deeply personal step in honoring a loved one. While it may seem like a simple process, there are several important questions you should ask your cemetery before moving forward. Every cemetery has its own rules and guidelines, and being informed early can save you time, stress, and unexpected costs.

Here are the top questions to help you prepare for a smooth and respectful installation.

1. Do You Have Specific Rules for Headstone Size and Material?

Many cemeteries have regulations about the size, shape, and type of materials allowed. For example, some only allow flat markers, while others permit upright monuments. Some may have guidelines about granite colors or bronze accents. Knowing this early helps you choose a design that honors your loved one and meets cemetery policy.

2. Are There Any Placement Restrictions?

Ask about exact plot dimensions, boundaries, and orientation rules. Some cemeteries require headstones to face a certain direction or be placed within a particular area of the plot. It's important to know where the headstone can go before placing your order.

3. Who Handles the Installation?

Some cemeteries require you to use their staff or a designated installer for placing headstones. Others allow you to work with outside monument companies, like McCall Monument. Be sure to ask if you can choose your installer and if there are any additional fees for using an external provider.

4. Are There Any Permits or Approval Forms Needed?

Check with your cemetery to see if they have any specific requirements for installing a headstone. Some may request a drawing, design details, or written approval before moving forward. If you're unsure where to start, the team at McCall Monument can handle this process on your behalf, working directly with the cemetery to ensure all necessary steps are completed smoothly.

5. Is There a Foundation Fee?

In some cases, cemeteries charge a separate fee for the concrete foundation that supports the headstone. This fee may vary based on the size of the monument or the cemetery’s own policies.

At McCall Monument, we provide all pricing upfront so you are never caught off guard. When a cemetery charges an additional foundation fee, we will communicate that clearly at the time of your order. You are also welcome to contact your cemetery directly to confirm their policies.

Not all monument providers offer this level of transparency, but it is something we take pride in as part of serving families with honesty and care.

6. When Can Installation Take Place?

Seasonal weather, ground conditions, or cemetery schedules may impact installation timing. It's a good idea to ask how soon the headstone can be placed after burial and if there are any blackout periods during the year.

7. Are There Any Ongoing Maintenance Expectations?

Headstones may require periodic maintenance, and some cemeteries have rules about upkeep. Ask who is responsible for cleaning or repairs in the future. In some cases, perpetual care services are available for an additional fee.

8. Can You Place Additional Items at the Site?

If you plan to leave flowers, tokens, or seasonal decorations, ask what’s allowed. Some cemeteries have strict rules about what can be left at grave sites or how long items may remain. Understanding these policies helps you plan meaningful visits.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a headstone is a meaningful act of remembrance. Asking the right questions can bring peace of mind during a time when clarity and compassion are needed most. If you're working with a trusted monument provider like McCall Monument, we’re here to guide you through every step, from design to installation.

If you’re unsure what your cemetery requires, let us help. We work directly with the cemetery as part of every monument we create, ensuring all requirements are met and your loved one’s memorial is placed with care and respect.

Have Questions or Ready to Begin?

We're here to help you honor your loved one with care and dignity. Reach out to our compassionate team for guidance or to schedule a consultation.

Contact McCall Monument