Preservation Guidance for National Cemeteries

Preservation Foundations

Cemeteries are “protected, managed, and administered as suitable and dignified burial grounds and significant cultural resources.”

Concepts embedded in the Code of Federal Regulations (36 U.S.C. § 12 (1986)) guide the care of national cemeteries by the National Park Service. Cemeteries are “protected, managed, and administered as suitable and dignified burial grounds and significant cultural resources.”

National cemetery care is also addressed in Director’s Order #61, “Guidelines for National Cemeteries,” which states that, “The cemeteries are administered to preserve the historic character, uniqueness, and solemn nature of both the cemeteries and the historical parks of which they are a part.” It addresses topics like interment, repair or replacement of markers, ceremonies, and flag display.

Policy Overview

• National Cemeteries Act of 1973 (38 U.S.C. § 24)

• Code of Federal Regulations (36 U.S.C.§ 12 (1986)): Part 12 -  National Cemeteries

• Director's Order #61: National Cemetery Operations

• Reference Manual 61: National Cemetery Operations

• Policy Memorandum 22-01: Managing Special Events and Demonstrations in National Cemeteries

Preservation Guidance

• National Register Bulletin 41: Guidelines for Evaluating and Registering Cemeteries and Burial Places 

• National Register Eligibility of National Cemeteries – A Clarification of Policy (9/8/2011)

• Preservation Brief 48: Preserving Grave Markers in Historic Cemeteries

Cemetery Conservation Resources

Learning Reources

Cemetery Preservation