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Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations
Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
Nanaimo City cemeteries accommodate casket burials and human cremated remains. Burial scheduling, marker sizes and seasonal flower rules apply; ashes cannot be scattered there.
Key information
Nanaimo City cemeteries accommodate casket burials and human cremated remains. Burial scheduling, marker sizes and seasonal flower rules apply; ashes cannot be scattered there.
On this page
Burial arrangements and remains
Burials usually take place Tuesday to Friday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays are available for an extra charge. Ask cemetery staff for the actual available booking and fee rather than assuming an ordinary weekday slot is open.
Only human remains may be interred. Do not scatter ashes in a City cemetery or include pet ashes. The source does not publish a separate permission to leave remains outside the interment process.
Sources: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Markers and ornaments
Two markers are allowed on a single plot. Maximum size is 46 by 91 cm, with a minimum thickness of four inches. Only granite or bronze markers are permitted. Older upright markers at Bowen Cemetery predate the present rule.
Fresh flowers can remain until deteriorated. Artificial flowers are allowed September 30 to May 1 and removed when spring grass cutting begins. Toys, food and glass vases are not allowed because of safety during maintenance.
Sources: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Settlement and service contact
A new grave can settle as soil moves. The City levels recent burials after a few weeks and carries out annual levelling of selected areas for safety. Temporary plywood can protect a plot from soil during a nearby burial.
Cemetery information is available at 411 Dunsmuir Street, 250-755-4525 extension 3 or cemetery.info@nanaimo.ca. Listed hours are Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office address is not a cemetery entrance.
Sources: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Quick reference
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Usual burials | Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
| Saturday burial | Available at extra cost |
| Markers per plot | Two |
| Maximum marker size | 46 by 91 cm |
| Minimum thickness | Four inches |
| Artificial flowers | September 30 to May 1 |
Sources: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Steps to follow
- Arrange
Contact the cemetery office about booking and interment.
- Confirm marker
Check material, size and number before purchase.
- Visit respectfully
Follow seasonal decoration and maintenance rules.
Sources: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Questions and answers
What kinds of interment does the City allow?
Full casket burials and human cremated remains.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
When do burials usually happen?
Tuesday to Friday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Can a burial happen Saturday?
Yes, with an additional charge.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Can ashes be scattered in a City cemetery?
No.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Can pet ashes be buried with a person?
The source says only human remains may be interred.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
How many markers are allowed on one plot?
Two.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
What is the maximum marker size?
46 by 91 cm, or 18 by 36 inches.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
What materials are permitted?
Granite or bronze.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
When are artificial flowers allowed?
September 30 through May 1.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information
Why might a plot have temporary plywood?
It protects the plot from soil associated with a nearby burial.
Source: Official Nanaimo cemetery burials, markers and grave decorations information