One of the most popular ways to honor a deceased loved one is to decorate their grave site. If you have questions about what is allowed at the cemetery, don’t hesitate to ask your cemetery professional.
One of the most popular ways to honor a deceased loved one is to decorate their grave site. While every cemetery is different, several ways to decorate a grave site are acceptable in most cemeteries.
Flowers are always a great way to show your respect at a loved one’s final resting place. Most cemeteries allow flowers, though some may require they be in a vase, and others may only allow artificial flowers. Wreaths are also a typical decoration and are allowed in most cases.
It’s not uncommon to decorate grave sites with small American flags—mainly if your loved one was a veteran. Those whose loved ones were born in other countries may wish to decorate their grave site with the colors of their homeland.
Other small items, such as notes or photos, may be allowed as long as they are secured. Crosses or other religious symbols are also often allowed, provided they are not too large and do not interfere with lawn maintenance.
Here are some guidelines you should remember when decorating your loved one’s grave.
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Most cemeteries prohibit potentially dangerous items such as glass, shepherd hooks, rocks, or gravel.
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While you may decorate with flowers, you typically are not allowed to plant anything permanent.
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Keep your decorations on your loved one’s grave only. Do not encroach on someone else’s space or hang items on trees or bushes without permission.
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Most cemeteries do not allow items to be stuck in the ground or curbed around graves. They will remove anything that gets in the way of mowing and lawn maintenance.
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Items such as solar lights, stuffed animals, candles, or large flags or banners are typically not allowed.
