Double-Depth Burial Explained

A double-depth plot lets two people — usually a married couple — be buried in the same grave, one above the other. It saves space and often money, and it's increasingly common in cemeteries where land is scarce.

How it works

The grave is dug deeper for the first burial — often around 7 to 8 feet. The second burial is placed above it later, at a standard depth. Many cemeteries require a double-depth liner or vault designed to support both.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Costs less than two side-by-side plots.
• Uses less land.
• Keeps the couple together in one grave.

Cons:

• The first burial must be deep, which may cost more to dig.
• Not all cemeteries or soils allow it.
• Disinterment, if ever needed, is more complex.

Planning the headstone

Because there's only one grave width, the headstone is usually narrower than a side-by-side companion stone. Common choices:

• A single upright with both names stacked or side by side.
• A slightly wider companion stone if the cemetery allows it.
• A flat companion marker in lawn sections.

Pre-engrave the surviving partner's name and birth date so only the final date needs adding — see wording when a spouse is still living.

Questions to ask the cemetery

• Is double-depth available in this section?
• What width of headstone is allowed?
• Is a special liner required?
• What does the second opening cost?

Key Takeaways

• Double-depth plots stack two burials in one grave.
• They usually cost less than two plots.
• The headstone is often a single-width stone with two names.
• Check availability, liner rules and headstone width first.

Next Step

See companion headstone buying guide and husband and wife wording.