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If you find yourself in a situation where you need to relocate a gravesite, it could be due to various reasons such as a change in cemetery preferences or the decision to cremate instead of traditional burial. Proper planning and care are essential during this process.
Steps
Preparation for the Relocation
Evaluate the expenses involved in relocating the gravesite. Relocating a gravesite incurs several costs that need to be considered beforehand. This includes the exhumation process and the subsequent reburial expenses. Ensuring financial readiness is crucial before proceeding.
- The exhumation costs typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, with additional fees if a funeral director's services are required.
- If retaining the remains, arrangements for the disposal of the previous casket must be made.
- Reburial expenses encompass transportation, purchase of a new plot, headstone, and possibly a new casket. Additionally, the presence of a funeral director may be necessary during the burial at the new location.
Obtain an exhumation permit. Acquiring an exhumation permit is necessary prior to initiating the process. Contact the cemetery where the deceased is interred to inquire about the procedures for obtaining an exhumation permit within that jurisdiction.
- To apply for the permit, you must have legal authority to act on behalf of the deceased, typically granted to a next of kin. This may involve obtaining signatures from living relatives of the deceased. Additionally, signatures from the plot owner and burial authorities may be required.
- The cost of the exhumation permit varies depending on location and can be obtained online through government channels or in person.
Seek approval from religious authorities. Securing consent from religious authorities is imperative, especially if the grave is located in consecrated grounds. Contact a religious official affiliated with the area or the deceased's church to obtain formal or informal consent for the relocation.
- Reach out to the cemetery to determine if they have affiliations with nearby churches. Contacting these churches may facilitate the approval process.
Arrange transportation for the remains. Organize transportation logistics before proceeding with the relocation. Coordinate with the cemetery to arrange for a hearse or container truck to transport the remains to the new plot.
- Ensure coordination with the new funeral home and cemetery. Confirm that the new plot is prepared for reburial on the day of exhumation to streamline the process.
Relocating the Gravesite
Determine your presence during the exhumation. While your presence is not mandatory, ensuring the necessary permits are available is crucial. The exhumation process can be distressing, and you may opt not to witness it.
- While not obligatory, ensure the presence of authorized officials during the exhumation. Given the potential health risks, having an environmental health officer present is advisable. Additionally, the presence of a funeral director can facilitate a smooth process.
Verify the relocation of the grave. Ensure to follow up with the cemetery's funeral director to confirm that the grave has been relocated to the new plot. Additionally, you can contact the funeral director at the new location to ensure proper exhumation and relocation.
- Consider visiting the new plot to ensure the correct setup of the headstone and site. Arrange for the presence of the funeral director during the burial at the new plot by coordinating in advance.
Conduct a ceremony at the new plot. Some individuals opt to hold a ceremony at the new plot for the deceased. This allows for family and friends to participate in the burial process and seek any necessary religious blessings for the deceased at the new location.
- Include the cost of the ceremony at the new plot in your budget for relocating the gravesite. Discuss your options with the funeral director at the new cemetery to ensure a smooth process.
