Can You Replace a Flat Grave Marker With an Upright Headstone?

Families sometimes start with a flat marker and later want an upright headstone. Whether that's possible depends on the section.

Check the section first

Many lawn sections are flat-marker only. If yours is, an upright isn't allowed there — but some cemeteries allow uprights in other sections. Ask the cemetery. See flat vs upright.

If uprights are allowed

1. Lot owner authorises the change.
2. Cemetery approves the new design — see the permit process.
3. A new foundation is poured.
4. The old marker is removed and the upright installed.

What happens to the old marker?

Options can include placing it as a footstone, keeping it as a family keepsake, or disposal. See footstones.

Alternatives in a flat-only section

• A larger flat marker or a companion flat marker
• A bevel or slant marker, if allowed
• An etched portrait on black granite for more impact

Upgrading in a flat-only section

If uprights aren't allowed:

• A larger flat marker with more detail.
• A bevel or slant, if allowed.
• An etched portrait on black granite.
• A bench or memorial elsewhere in the cemetery.

See slant, bevel and pillow markers.

Keeping both the old marker and a new upright

Some families keep the original flat marker and add an upright:

• The flat marker stays at the grave, often moved to the foot.
• The upright carries names, dates and new details.
• Matching granite ties the two together.

The cemetery must approve both positions. This approach preserves a marker placed by earlier generations while giving the grave more presence.

Key Takeaways

• Flat-only sections don't allow uprights.
• Where allowed, the lot owner and cemetery must approve.
• The old marker can become a footstone or keepsake.

Next Step

Request a quote for an upright or a larger marker.