By Capital Grave Markers · Published · Last updated · 6 min read
Before you order a headstone, get the cemetery’s written rules and confirm seven things: which memorial types the section allows, the maximum size, accepted materials, whether a foundation is required, who may install it, what fees apply and how the design is approved. Rules differ from cemetery to cemetery and even between sections, so the written regulations — not general advice — are what count.
Key Takeaways
- The cemetery’s written regulations decide what memorial you can place.
- The FTC Funeral Rule does not cover monument dealers or cemeteries without an on-site funeral home.
- Confirm type, size, material, foundation, installer, fees and approval before production.
- We release an order to production only after cemetery approval and final design approval.
Why do cemetery rules matter so much?
Because the cemetery can refuse a memorial that does not meet its regulations. The Federal Trade Commission advises families to consider “the type of monuments or memorials it allows” when choosing a cemetery.
The FTC also explains that its Funeral Rule does not apply to third-party sellers such as monument dealers, or to cemeteries that lack an on-site funeral home. In practice that means the cemetery’s own contract and regulations govern what can be placed on the plot.
What should I ask the cemetery before ordering?
Ask for the answers in writing, preferably the full regulations document for your section.
- Memorial type: flat only, or are bevel, slant or upright stones allowed?
- Maximum size: length, width and height, including any base.
- Material: is granite accepted, or is bronze required in this section?
- Foundation: is a concrete foundation or granite base required, and who pours it?
- Installer: does the cemetery set memorials itself or allow outside installers?
- Fees: setting, foundation, permit or inspection charges.
- Approval: does the cemetery need to approve the design or a drawing first?
Are rules different in national cemeteries?
Yes. In a VA national cemetery, the government furnishes the headstone or marker. The FTC notes there are no charges for opening or closing the grave, for a vault or liner, or for setting the marker in a national cemetery. For private cemeteries, see Veteran Grave Markers.
What happens if my headstone does not meet the rules?
The cemetery can decline to set it, and a personalized stone usually cannot be resold. That is why our process requires cemetery approval before production: an order is released only after cemetery approval, final design approval and signed-contract conditions are satisfied.
Once production begins, a personalized product is non-refundable under our cancellation policy, so confirming the rules first protects you.
Can Capital Grave Markers help with the cemetery?
Yes. We can help contact the cemetery and organize the documentation. You provide accurate cemetery and plot information and approve the final design; final acceptance remains subject to the cemetery’s written rules and approval.
Installation is not included in the product price. Where our service coverage is confirmed, we can arrange paid cemetery installation; elsewhere we provide setting guidance. Contact us with your cemetery name and ZIP code to start.
Sources
Prices quoted are listed prices on capitalgravemarkers.com as of September 27, 2026 and may change. The product page, written quote and signed agreement control your order.
Shop Related Memorials
Have a Question?
Our team is here to help with any questions about your order, delivery, or installation.
