Headstones, Markers and Monuments
A marker is usually bought separately from the funeral and the grave, often weeks or months later. Each cemetery sets rules on what kind and size it allows, and many charge a fee to set or inspect it. Check those rules before you order.
Get the cemetery’s marker rules in writing first: flat or upright, maximum size, material, and any setting, permit or inspection fee. A marker that breaks the rules may not be installed.
Headstone vs. gravestone, and other terms
- Headstone or gravestone
- The two words are used for the same thing: a stone that marks a grave.
- Flat grave marker
- Sits level with the ground. Often granite or bronze. Some cemeteries or sections allow only flat markers.
- Upright headstone or monument
- Stands above the ground, usually on a base.
- Niche marker
- An engraved plate on the front of a niche. See niches and columbariums.
Cemetery rules: local examples
| Cemetery | What its published rules say |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City Cemetery | Upright headstones up to 3 feet tall and 39 inches wide for a single grave (78 inches for a double), pinned to a base at the west end of the grave. The headstone belongs to the owner of the burial right. |
| Larkin Memorial cemeteries | Granite markers up to 18 by 32 inches and at least 4 inches thick. Bronze markers up to 16 by 28 inches. Every memorial is inspected and approved. |
| Riverton City Cemetery | Monument companies pay a $100 permit and inspection fee. |
How much does a headstone cost?
Headstones are usually sold by monument companies, not by funeral homes or city cemeteries, and we haven’t collected their prices yet. Price depends on size, material, design, and engraving. Get written quotes from more than one seller.
On top of the marker, expect cemetery fees:
- Salt Lake City Cemetery charges a headstone monitoring fee of $90 for a flat marker and $112 for an upright one.
- Riverton charges the monument company $100 for a permit and inspection.
- West Jordan charges $375 to $450 to engrave a niche marker.
- Larkin lists a setting and one-time maintenance fee.
Markers for veterans
Eligible veterans can receive a government headstone, marker, or medallion at no cost. See VA headstones and markers.
“What are your marker rules, and what fees does the cemetery charge to set or approve one?”
Before you order
- Get the cemetery’s marker rules in writing.
- Ask whether the cemetery must approve the design first.
- Get written quotes that include engraving, delivery, and setting.
- Ask about a veterans marker if the person served.
Ready to see how these choices apply to your situation?
Your Wayfinder Plan can help organize the options you’re considering and give you a clearer picture of what to ask and compare.
Build My Wayfinder Plan- Salt Lake City headstone rules: Salt Lake City Code 15.24; monitoring fees: Salt Lake City Cemetery fees, July 2026–June 2027.
- Riverton City Cemetery; West Jordan fee schedule.
- Larkin Memorial cemetery rules and regulations, collected by Wayfinder, September 2026.
Rules are examples from individual cemeteries. Term definitions are common usage. This page is general information, not legal advice.