How to Plan for a Mausoleum: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning for the construction of a private family mausoleum is a significant undertaking. Here are the steps you should consider as you plan for a mausoleum.

Step-By-Step Guide on Constructing a Custom Mausoleum

Here are some general guidelines for someone considering mausoleum interment. It’s important to educate yourself as much as possible before you choose any final resting place.

1. Learn about the different types of mausoleums.

A community mausoleum is open to the public at large. There are different types of community mausoleums.

A garden mausoleum opens to the outdoors. Visitors to a garden mausoleum stand outdoors and view the door to the mausoleum crypt or niche, which may include a plaque with the deceased’s name, birth date, and death date.

To visit a walk-in mausoleum or vestibule mausoleum, the visitor goes inside a comfortable building to view the door of the mausoleum crypt or niche. Often, walk-in mausoleums are equipped with comfortable benches and artwork.

A walk-in mausoleum is preferred over a garden mausoleum because visitors are out of the elements and have a greater sense of privacy while visiting their loved one’s remains. However, a private indoor mausoleum is the best choice for families who demand more seclusion and peace. However, it’s worth noting that constructing a private mausoleum may be cost-prohibitive for some families.

2. Determine how the space will be used.

A mausoleum acts as an above-ground burial chamber for caskets and cremation urns. One practical consideration you must decide upon is how the space will be used. Will your private mausoleum hold you and your spouse – or your entire family?

Mausoleums can be designed in any configuration to suit your family’s unique needs, including a single crypt, side-by-side crypts, or end-to-end crypts. Of course, besides holding caskets, a mausoleum can house your loved one’s cremated remains in niches.

3. Select a location for your private family mausoleum.

Choose a suitable location for the mausoleum, either in a cemetery, private property, or a designated memorial park. Ensure you have the rights or permissions to use the chosen site. Develop a plan for the ongoing maintenance of the mausoleum, including cleaning, repairs, and landscaping upkeep. Consider creating an endowment fund or trust to cover the long-term maintenance and care of the mausoleum.

4. Make selections regarding the mausoleum’s design.

One of the benefits of constructing a mausoleum is that the family can participate in the design process. Work with your mausoleum design consultant to create a beautiful structure that reflects the family’s contributions, beliefs, and values. Decide on additional amenities like benches, statues, landscaping, lighting, walls, and security features.

5. Understand the legal requirements, permits, and approvals for a personalized family estate.

Check local, state, and federal laws and regulations regarding mausoleums, cemeteries, and construction permits. You may need to consult with local authorities on your behalf for zoning and land use regulations and obtain all the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities, including building permits and any cemetery-specific permissions.

The mausoleum construction process is unlike any other. Planning and constructing a mausoleum can be a complex and emotionally charged process, so it is essential that you work with a quality mausoleum builder known for building structures of this type.

Consult with Eternal Mausoleums by Forever Legacy, North America’s premier private granite mausoleum construction company. We will walk you through the process – from selecting a site to designing the landscaping around the structure.

To learn more about private entombment options, request a consultation with a member of our staff.

Key Takeaways on How to Plan for a Mausoleum

• Learn about the different types of mausoleums.
• Determine how the space will be utilized.
• Select a location and consider the ongoing maintenance requirements.
• Work with a mausoleum construction company that understands all the legal requirements and approvals required for this type of construction project.