June 99
Define interment areas by natural terrain features such as ridges, valleys,
or natural breaks in the topography.
Edges of burial sections shall be a minimum of 3 m (10 feet) from
edges of roads, drives and tree lines; a minimum of 6 m (20 feet) from
property boundaries or fence lines. The maximum distance from the edge
of a road to the farthest gravesite within a burial section shall be no further
than 120 m (400 feet) over relatively level land. In areas with steep slopes,
the distance from road to farthest gravesite shall be considerably shorter.
Generally, for every increase of 5% of slope, there should be a decrease
of 30 m (100 feet) or more the distance.
The topography will be the primary factor in determining the direction
graves face within a burial section. Where the topography is not
significant, road layout and accessibility will determine the direction graves
face. A single burial section should have one predominant slope. Each
burial section in the cemetery is identified, with the limits of the burial
section clearly indicated by section markers.
Full Casket Gravesites
The National Cemetery Administration is committed to providing burial
benefits to as many veterans as possible and to achieving the maximum
development of gravesites within national cemeteries. The standard
gravesite size will be the smallest size practical to accommodate the type
of marker being used, to ensure appropriate gravesite appearance and to
provide for safety consideration of employees. Each gravesite is marked
with one marker, consistent with the requirements of applicable law.
The standard gravesite sizes will be used when conditions
warrant:
The 1500 mm x 3000 mm (5' x 10') gravesite will be used where
n
double-depth interments in a 2100 mm (7') excavation are possible.
The 1800 mm x 3000 mm (6' x 10') gravesite will be used for
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single depth side-by-side interments where excavation below 1500
mm (5') is impractical due to soil conditions.
The 1200 mm x 2400 mm (4' x 8') gravesite may be used in those
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sections of national cemeteries which by law use flat markers.
The 900 mm x 2400 mm (3' x 8') gravesite may be used in those
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sections of national cemeteries which use lawn crypts. Lawn crypts
are pre-placed concrete containers with removable concrete lids
which are installed at the time of land development. Crypts are
installed by excavating the burial area and preparing it to provide
adequate drainage. Pre-cast crypts are then placed adjacent to one
another and abutting on another.
VA Design Guide -- National Cemetery Administration
Page 2 -12
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