A burial plot, also known as a grave site or burial space, is a designated piece of land within a cemetery where a deceased person’s remains are interred. Burial plots are a vital aspect of traditional burial practices, providing families with a permanent and meaningful place to honor and remember their loved ones.
Types of Burial Plots and Dimensions
The size and dimensions of burial plots vary depending on their intended use, cemetery regulations, and individual requirements. Below are the most common types of burial plots:
Standard Single Burial Plot
This type of plot is the most common and is designed for a single individual. Dimensions typically include:
- Width: 2.5 to 3 feet (0.76 to 0.91 meters)
- Length: 8 to 10 feet (2.44 to 3.05 meters)
- Depth: 4 to 6 feet (1.22 to 1.83 meters)
The depth accommodates the casket and, if required, a grave liner or burial vault.
Double-Depth Burial Plot
These plots are used for two individuals, with caskets placed vertically, one above the other. They are often chosen by spouses or close family members. Dimensions are similar to single plots, but the depth increases to 8 to 10 feet (2.44 to 3.05 meters).
Infant or Child Burial Plot
Reserved for infants or children, these plots are smaller and often located in dedicated sections of cemeteries. Typical dimensions are:
- Width: 1.5 to 2.5 feet (0.46 to 0.76 meters)
- Length: 3 to 5 feet (0.91 to 1.52 meters)
- Depth: 3 to 4 feet (0.91 to 1.22 meters)
Cremation Burial Plot
These plots are smaller, as they are designed to hold urns containing cremated remains. Dimensions include:
- Width: 2 to 3 feet (0.61 to 0.91 meters)
- Length: 2 to 3 feet (0.61 to 0.91 meters)
- Depth: 2 to 3 feet (0.61 to 0.91 meters)
Some cemeteries allow multiple urns to be interred in a single cremation plot, providing a cost-effective solution.
Oversized Burial Plot
For individuals requiring larger caskets or burial vaults, oversized plots are available. Dimensions typically include:
- Width: 4 to 5 feet (1.22 to 1.52 meters)
- Length: 9 to 12 feet (2.74 to 3.66 meters)
- Depth: 6 to 8 feet (1.83 to 2.44 meters)
These plots ensure respectful interment for those who require additional space.
Grave Liners and Burial Vaults
Grave liners and burial vaults are often used to protect the casket and maintain the integrity of the burial site.
Grave Liners
Grave liners are partial enclosures that protect the top and sides of the casket, leaving the bottom open. They are made of concrete or plastic and help:
- Prevent ground collapse over time.
- Maintain the cemetery’s appearance.
- Comply with cemetery regulations.
Burial Vaults
Burial vaults provide full encasement of the casket, offering maximum protection against moisture, soil pressure, and shifting ground. Vaults are commonly made from concrete, metal, or composite materials.
Costs of Grave Liners and Burial Vaults
Here is a breakdown of related costs.
- Grave Liners: $700 to $1,500 USD (approximately $950 to $2,000 CAD).
- Burial Vaults: $1,000 to $2,500 USD (approximately $1,350 to $3,375 CAD).
- Oversized options may cost 10-20% more.
Costs of Burial Plots
The cost of a burial plot depends on factors such as location, type of plot, and cemetery policies. For more info on cemetery and grave costs in the U.S., click here. For Canadian costs, click here.
Standard Single Burial Plot
- Cost: $1,000 to $4,000 USD (approximately $1,350 to $5,400 CAD).
- In high-demand areas, costs can reach $10,000 USD (approximately $13,500 CAD) or more.
Double-Depth Burial Plot
- Cost: $2,000 to $6,000 USD (approximately $2,700 to $8,100 CAD).
- This option is typically more affordable than purchasing two adjacent plots.
Infant or Child Burial Plot
- Cost: $400 to $1,000 USD (approximately $540 to $1,350 CAD).
- Lower costs are common for these smaller plots.
Cremation Burial Plot
- Cost: $500 to $2,000 USD (approximately $675 to $2,700 CAD).
- Cremation plots are usually more affordable due to their smaller size.
Oversized Burial Plot
- Cost: $2,500 to $6,000 USD (approximately $3,375 to $8,100 CAD).
- Additional costs may apply for excavation, larger vaults, or custom dimensions.
Usage of Burial Plots
Burial plots cater to a variety of needs and preferences:
Individual Burial
A single burial plot reserved for one person.
Companion Burial
Side-by-side or double-depth interments, often chosen for spouses or close family members.
Family Plot
A reserved area within a cemetery intended for multiple family members, offering a shared memorial space.
Green Burial Plot
Eco-friendly plots that forgo embalming, chemical treatments, and traditional caskets, typically in natural settings.
Planning for a Burial Plot
Planning for a burial plot in advance ensures families can lock in prices and select a location that aligns with personal preferences. Cemeteries often provide payment plans and discounts for pre-purchased plots, making it easier to manage costs. Consulting with cemetery staff or a funeral director can help families navigate regulations, pricing, and plot availability.
For more information about burial options and associated costs, visit Funeral Homes Nearby’s burial resources page.
