What To Know About Cemeteries

When planning a burial, either in advance or at the time of need, many families are surprised by the variety of fees involved. From grave purchases to marker installation, cemetery costs reflect both the services provided and the long-term maintenance of the grounds. In New Jersey, these services are closely regulated by the New Jersey Cemetery Board.

Here’s a guide to help you understand common cemetery fees, what they cover, and what you can expect when planning ahead or at the time of loss.

Grave Purchases: What Are You Really Buying?

When you “buy a grave,” you’re purchasing the right of interment, not the land itself. This means you or your loved one has the legal right to be buried in a specific plot. This is a one-time purchase, but it doesn’t include future services like opening/closing or headstone installation.

Families can also pre-purchase graves, mausoleum crypts, or cremation niches, often at today’s prices, and choose to be buried near loved ones. Pre-need purchases help ensure your wishes are honored while easing future stress on your family.

Maintenance and Perpetual Care

New Jersey law requires all cemeteries to contribute a portion of each grave sale to a Maintenance & Preservation Fund (often called “perpetual care”). These funds cover:

• Mowing and landscaping
  
  
• General upkeep of cemetery roads and buildings
  
  

They do not cover headstone cleaning or repairs unless you have a separate agreement.

Opening & Closing Fees

Every burial requires grave opening and closing, which includes excavation, restoration, and staff time. These fees vary and may include:

• Standard weekday burial fees
  
  
• Saturday or holiday surcharges
  
  
• Overtime fees for funerals arriving late in the day
  
  

Planning arrival times and understanding cemetery schedules can help families avoid extra costs.

Second Right or “Reuse” Privileges

Some cemeteries allow a second burial in the same plot, such as:

• Two family members in the same grave
  
  
• Burial of cremated remains above or below a previous interment
  
  

These options depend on the cemetery’s rules and always include additional fees and documentation.

Marker, Monument & Foundation Fees

Installing a headstone or grave marker involves several costs:

• Approval of the design and size
  
  
• Foundation installation, usually concrete
  
  
• Installation labor
  
  

Even if you purchase the marker elsewhere, the cemetery typically charges for the foundation and placement to ensure uniformity and safety.

Outer Burial Enclosure Requirements

Most cemeteries in New Jersey require outer burial containers, also called:

• Vaults - lined and sealed enclosures to surround and protect the casket
  
  
• Grave liners - unfinished enclosures to surround the casket
  
  

These enclosures support the grave and prevent the ground from collapsing over time. You may purchase one through the funeral home or directly from the cemetery.

Prepayment of Service Fees

In addition to pre-buying the grave, you can prepay for services like opening/closing or outer burial enclosures. Prepaying helps lock in current pricing, but ask:

• Are funds placed in trust?
  
  
• What happens if the cemetery changes ownership?
  
  
• Is the price guaranteed?
  
  

Depending on how the funds are handled, your payment may be considered constructively received (i.e., the cemetery recognizes the income now, not when the service occurs).

What Cemeteries Are Legally Allowed to Sell in NJ

In New Jersey, cemeteries may offer:

• Graves, crypts, and niches
  
  
• Mausoleum space
  
  
• Outer burial containers
  
  
• Opening/closing services
  
  
• Monument foundations
  
  

However, they may not sell:

• Caskets
  
  
• Urns
  
  
• Funeral services (like embalming or transportation)
  
  

These items and services are only available through licensed funeral homes, ensuring transparency and ethical operations.

Oversight by the NJ Cemetery Board

The New Jersey Cemetery Board, part of the Division of Consumer Affairs, enforces all cemetery regulations. This includes:

• Consumer protections
  
  
• Maintenance fund requirements
  
  
• Transparent pricing
  
  
• Ethical conduct
  
  

Cemeteries must provide clear pricing, respond to customer concerns, and follow state laws regarding the sale and care of burial spaces.

Final Thoughts

Understanding cemetery fees helps families avoid stress and surprise costs during a deeply emotional time. Whether you’re planning ahead or making immediate decisions, we encourage you to ask questions, review contracts, and work with trusted providers. At Creran Celebration, we’re here to guide you with care, clarity, and compassion — every step of the way.

💬 Have Questions?

Let us walk you through your cemetery options and help you make informed choices.
📞 Call us today or contact us online to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

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