Permanency of Cemetery Plots
Generally speaking, when you purchase a cemetery plot, it does not expire. You’re not buying the land itself, but rather the right to use a specific space within the cemetery to bury a deceased individual. Reusing the same place for burials is a tradition repeated in cultures across the world for thousands of years.
Costs and Graves
If someone couldn’t afford a private grave, a common grave was affordable. The biggest difference between semi and demi graves is permanency. Though temporary, demi graves last longer. Grave owners should make a Will so ownership transfers as they wish. When owners die, graves pass to their estate’s executors.
Perpetual Ownership and Reuse
Cemetery plots can be purchased in perpetuity, passed to heirs, or for limited renewable terms of 25-100 years. After renewable terms expire, remains are reburied deeper or moved to an ossuary. Relocating graves is generally avoided as it is seen as disrespectful, but it happens rarely due to overcrowding or construction needs. Graves in America are meant to last forever by law, unlike religious cemeteries.
Depth of Graves and Inheritance of Rights
Graves are dug six feet deep to deter grave robbers seeking bodies for medical schools and to prevent accidentally disturbing remains. Rights to purchase, decorate, and bury in graves can be willed to heirs. Without a will, ownership transfers to estate executors after death. Each grave typically accommodates four burials over time as ground conditions allow.