In-Ground Burials

For many, in-ground burials represent the most traditional eternal resting place. In-ground burials have been the most common option for many years. Current statistics show that cremations are becoming more popular, with more Americans choosing cremation over traditional burials. Most cemeteries offer cemetery plots, also known as spaces or graves, for casketed or cremated remains to be buried in the ground. These sites may be marked by a permanent memorial (headstone, marker, bench, or other monument) to memorialize the deceased.

What is An In-Ground Burial?

In-ground burials describe traditional burials for casketed or cremated remains which are buried in the ground. Cemeteries offer plots, often known as graves or spaces, where in-ground burials take place. Families often memorialize loved ones with a permanent marker at the graveside.

Permanent Memorials Marking In-Ground Burials

In-ground burial sites may be marked with permanent monuments to memorialize the individual(s) at the specific location. Memorials may be made of granite, stone, or bronze. Cemeteries may allow for upright headstones and monuments in certain areas, where other areas may be restricted to flat bronze or granite memorials.

Plot Size for In-Ground Burials

The majority of in-ground burial spaces are designed to accommodate a single, individual burial. Individual in-ground burial spaces for a traditional casket burial, range in size from 8 ft. x 2.5 ft. to 10 ft. x 4 ft. to customarily accommodate a 30 inch burial vault or outer burial container. The traditional depth for in-ground burials is 6 ft. Plots to accommodate oversize caskets or vaults can be arranged for at most cemeteries.

Companion and family plots

Families may choose to have loved ones buried next to one another in a cemetery. Companion plots are in-ground burial spaces designed for the interment of two individuals together, side by side or double-depth.

Another in-ground option is a family plot is traditionally a small area or row of single plots designated for a family. There may be a single large headstone engraved with the family name and in some cases, individual markers for each person buried in the area. In some cemeteries, a family plot may be separated from other plots with a fence, hedge or wall.

Companion and burial plots may be selected to enable loved ones to be buried together, to help save costs, or due to limited space at a cemetery. Pre-planning can help families understand the best options for them.