What Happens When There Is No Space in a Cemetery?

With the world's population continuing to grow, appropriate space for cemeteries is becoming a pressing issue. When a graveyard reaches its capacity, several solutions are implemented depending on the cultural and geographical context. This article explores these solutions and the procedures involved.

Closing the Cemetery and Relocation of Graves

When a cemetery reaches capacity, the most straightforward solution is to close it to new burials and initiate the relocation of graves. This process is often managed through a perpetual care and maintenance fund to ensure that the graves are properly cared for even after the cemetery is no longer accepting new interments.

In some regions, the perpetual care fund is exhausted eventually, leading to a scenario where the cemetery must be shut down. This can be a complex issue, and the solution largely depends on local regulations and the legal framework governing cemeteries. Regulation bodies in states or provinces must be contacted to understand the situation and potential solutions.

Temporary Cemeteries and Ossuaries

In areas where land scarcity is a more significant concern, temporary cemeteries might be used. These cemeteries are designated for a specific period, after which the remains are moved to an ossuary or cremated and placed in a columbarium. This process is common in regions with limited developable land.

What happens to these remains after the cemetery's designated period varies. In some cases, the remains might be moved to a more permanent location. In other instances, the bones may be interred in a communal ossuary or cremated entirely, allowing for a more sustainable use of land.

Starting New Cemeteries to Avoid Closure

In the United States, a common solution is to start new cemeteries in other locations rather than shutting down and allowing the cemetery to fall into disrepair. This solution is both a practical and maintainable approach. However, it is crucial that the cemetery's setup is carefully managed to ensure no further neglect occurs.

Another issue is when a cemetery falls into disrepair due to poor management or financial issues. This can happen in the U.S., especially if the cemetery is privately owned. In such cases, the local community or county may intervene to maintain the cemetery. Alternatively, the graves might be relocated to a more stable location to preserve the memories of the deceased.

Conclusion

When a cemetery reaches capacity, various strategies can be employed, including new cemetery construction, relocations, and ossuary practices. Regardless of the solution chosen, it is essential to maintain the dignity of the deceased and the respect for their families and communities. As the world's population grows, understanding and implementing sustainable cemetery management practices becomes increasingly important.

Keywords: cemetery space, perpetual care, grave relocation, cemetery maintenance, cemetery closure