Public cemeteries are typically managed by a state, county, or municipality, but private cemeteries are often cleaned and maintained by individuals, nonprofit organizations, and religious institutions. Depending on the type of cemetery, there are important questions to ask regarding the rules and regulations of cemetery headstones.

1. What type of gravestones are allowed? Companion and upright headstones are monuments that indicate the name, birth, and death records of the deceased. Grave markers are either flat, bevel or slanted. Grave ledgers are used to cover the entire burial site. Your cemetery may restrict the use of some markers based on space.
2. Which headstone sizes are allowed? Standard sizes for single graves are usually 24 by 12, 28 by 16, or 18 by 24 inches. Standard sizes for companion graves are usually 36 by 18 inches or 44 by 14 inches. Make sure the size of your headstone is within the range that your cemetery allows. What types of materials are allowed? Bronze and granite are two of the most common materials used to make headstones. Both materials are easy to maintain and will last for centuries.
3. What granite colors are allowed? Though uncommon, some cemeteries place restrictions on the granite color you can use for a headstone or the base of a bronze grave marker. Some of the common colors allowed include black, gray, pink, and red, but you should confirm with your funeral provider before deciding to purchase.
4. Are flower vases allowed? Some headstones come with bronze or granite flower vases, but you should always double-check with your cemetery before making a final decision.
5. Are photo memorials allowed? Many people choose to add porcelain photographs of their loved ones, but the cemetery you use may not permit the use of porcelain or other breakable materials due to safety concerns or the risk of damage from groundskeeping. These restrictions make the cemetery safe for everyone who comes to visit.

Are there any other restrictions? Some cemeteries regulate the type of headstone edging you can select, with a preference for curved edges to preserve your headstone and keep it safe from lawn mowing equipment.