When selecting a headstone to honor a loved one, many Utah families prefer upright headstones for their classic appearance, visibility, and ability to personalize the design. However, before making this decision, it’s important to ask:
Are upright headstones allowed in all Utah cemeteries?
The short answer is: not always. Utah cemeteries have varying regulations, and understanding them in advance will help ensure your memorial plans go smoothly.

In this article, we’ll explore where upright headstones are permitted in Utah, why some cemeteries restrict them, and how to work with a monument provider to ensure compliance.

What Is an Upright Headstone?

An upright headstone (also called a tablet monument or vertical marker) is one of the most traditional types of memorials. Typically made of granite or marble, these monuments feature:

• A vertical tablet mounted on a base

• Customizable height (usually 24–60 inches tall)

• Ample space for inscriptions, photos, and artwork

• Strong visual presence in the cemetery

Upright headstones are cherished for their visibility, timeless design, and ability to tell a deeper story about your loved one.

Are Upright Headstones Allowed in All Utah Cemeteries?

No. Each cemetery in Utah sets its own regulations regarding monument types, dimensions, and materials. Some cemeteries allow upright headstones throughout the property, while others limit them to specific sections or prohibit them entirely.

Cemeteries That Commonly Allow Upright Headstones

Many Utah public and private cemeteries fully allow upright headstones, especially in older sections:

• Richfield City Cemetery (Richfield, UT)

• Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park (Salt Lake City, UT)

• Provo City Cemetery (Provo, UT)

• St. George City Cemetery (St. George, UT)

These cemeteries typically permit both upright and flat markers, though they may have height, width, and material restrictions.

Cemeteries That May Restrict Upright Headstones

Some modern cemeteries or memorial parks emphasize uniform appearance and easier maintenance, which leads them to restrict upright headstones:

• Lawn-only cemeteries may allow flat markers only for easier mowing.

• Veterans cemeteries, like Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park, often provide government-issued flat markers, with limited upright marker options.

• Certain sections of larger cemeteries (baby sections, memorial gardens) may require flush markers.

Why Are Upright Headstones Sometimes Restricted?

Cemeteries may regulate upright headstones for several reasons:

• Maintenance: Flat markers make lawn care and mowing easier.

• Aesthetics: Some cemeteries aim for a uniform, park-like appearance.

• Space Management: Upright headstones take up more vertical and horizontal space.

• Safety: Tall monuments require secure installation to prevent tipping.

How to Check Cemetery Regulations in Utah

Before purchasing an upright headstone, follow these steps:

1️⃣ Contact the Cemetery Office
Ask for written guidelines or monument regulations specific to the burial plot.

2️⃣ Verify Section Rules
Many cemeteries have different rules for each section—infant, veterans, family, or private plots.

3️⃣ Get Approval Before Ordering
Submit your headstone design for pre-approval to avoid costly mistakes.

4️⃣ Work with a Professional Monument Provider
Local providers like Richfield Monuments are familiar with Utah cemetery rules and can help ensure your headstone complies.

Standard Upright Headstone Size Limits in Utah

While exact size restrictions vary, many Utah cemeteries permit upright headstones within these dimensions:

• Single Grave:

  • Width: 24"–36"

  • Height: 24"–48"

• Double Grave (Companion Monument):

  • Width: 36"–60"

  • Height: 30"–60"

• Base Thickness: 4"–8"

Always verify size limits with your specific cemetery.

Why Choose an Upright Headstone?

✔ Visual Presence
Easily visible from a distance, standing tall among other memorials.

✔ More Space for Personalization
Accommodates longer inscriptions, photos, and custom designs.

✔ Timeless Tradition
Upright monuments have honored loved ones for centuries across many cultures.

✔ Durability
When installed correctly, upright granite monuments can last for generations.

Working with Richfield Monuments: Utah’s Upright Headstone Specialists

At Richfield Monuments, we specialize in creating fully customized upright headstones that meet Utah cemetery regulations. Our experienced team:

• Verifies cemetery rules before design and production

• Assists with design approvals

• Offers high-quality granite and engraving options

• Provides delivery and professional installation across Utah

Whether you are honoring a loved one locally or pre-planning for yourself, our compassionate team ensures your monument reflects both your wishes and the cemetery’s guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Are upright headstones allowed in all Utah cemeteries?
Not always—but many cemeteries throughout the state welcome them. Always verify cemetery regulations before ordering, and work with an experienced Utah monument provider like Richfield Monuments to ensure your upright headstone is both beautiful and fully compliant.

By doing your research and partnering with knowledgeable professionals, you can create a meaningful, lasting tribute that honors your loved one with dignity and care.