Getting your monument approved by the cemetery is a necessary step that can feel daunting if you do not know what to expect. In most cases, the approval process is straightforward, but delays happen when paperwork is incomplete or the design does not conform to cemetery regulations. Here is how to navigate the process smoothly.
The first step is obtaining the cemetery's specific monument regulations. These are usually available from the cemetery office, and your monument company should be able to get them on your behalf. The regulations document will specify size limits, foundation requirements, approved materials, and any restrictions on design elements. It will also tell you what paperwork the cemetery requires for the approval submission.
When submitting for approval, you will typically provide a scaled drawing of the monument showing all dimensions, a rendering of the inscribed face with exact text and artwork, the granite color and finish specifications, and the lot number and section information. Some cemeteries also require proof of lot ownership or a signed authorization from the plot holder. Having all of this information complete and accurate on the first submission dramatically reduces the chance of delays.
Common reasons for approval delays include the monument exceeding the size allowance for the lot, missing or incorrect lot information, inscription errors that the cemetery flags, design elements that do not conform to section-specific rules, and incomplete submission forms. A monument company that is experienced with your particular cemetery will know exactly what to include and how to avoid these pitfalls.
Once the cemetery approves the design, they will issue a written approval or permit, often with an assigned setting date or a setting window. Keep this approval document in your records. If any changes are made to the design after approval, a new submission may be required. The timeline from submission to approval ranges from a few business days at smaller, less busy cemeteries to three or four weeks at large or backlogged facilities. Your monument company should follow up regularly with the cemetery on your behalf to keep the process moving forward.