Determine the burial location

If it is decided that the deceased will be buried, there are three main options. These include ground burial, being entombed in a mausoleum, and being placed in a crypt. Most of these take place in a cemetery, but in some cases, if you live in a rural area and local ordinances permit, a person can be buried on his or her own property or other residential property. Also, there are a growing number of natural burial grounds which cater to those wanting a green, eco-friendly burial.

Cemeteries are usually one of four kinds: public and for-profit; county or municipal-run and not-for-profit; not-for-profit religious cemeteries run by religious organizations; or government-run veteran’s cemeteries, which allow for the burial of veterans and their family members.

At many of these locations you have the choice of a traditional ground burial or having the deceased placed in mausoleum or crypt. Ground burial is the most common method of burial, and typically the most cost effective.

Mausoleums

A mausoleum is a building that houses the deceased. They historically were built for the wealthy and important, who wished to have a more ornate resting place than a traditional grave could offer. They can be any size and allow for the deceased to be placed in separate vaults that are stacked on top of one another. In some cases, they are constructed privately by families so that generations of kin can be placed inside. Mausoleums have come in and out of popularity over the centuries, but are now considered a solution for a cemetery that is running out of ground space, as they allow the aforementioned stacking of tombs. Mausoleums – which can include both indoor and outdoor visitation areas – also can offer a quiet place for the loved ones of the deceased to visit. They often include seating and reflection areas. For people who in life express feeling uncomfortable about being buried underground, they also prove to be a good option. One consideration — in cases where a mausoleum only has an indoor viewing area – is that the buildings are often kept locked for security reasons. Typically a family member and, of course, mausoleum officials, can provide access, but it might need to be scheduled if staff isn’t always onsite.

Crypts

The word “crypt” in many cases today has become synonymous with grave and tomb, but it is typically a chamber built from stone or concrete in which a casket or urn is placed. A crypt can be underground or above ground. Historically, crypts have been placed under churches and in the floors and walls of other religious structures. If you are considering choosing a crypt for the deceased, it is important to check with cemetery officials as to what they consider a crypt so that you get the type of burial that is desired.

Green Burial Sites

For those interested in eco-friendly burial or natural burial, so-called green cemeteries are in some areas. These call for the deceased’s body to be placed in a biodegradable casket, shroud, or even a favorite blanket, and placed in the ground. No concrete vault encloses the casket to slow decomposition.

Burial on Privately Owned Land

If burial on family land or other residential property is planned, it will be important to make sure it is legally permitted. If not, consequences could include having to exhume the deceased and plan a burial elsewhere. This would not only be an upsetting event, but likely also a costly one.