For many people around the world. Cemeteries & Memorial Parks offer a beautiful, park-like setting for peaceful solitude and reflection. Especially for loved ones mourning the loss of a relative or close friend. As grave hunters, we usually visit cemeteries for a variety of reasons. Whether for research or while on vacation, we may visit local cemeteries where celebrities or other notables are buried. Sometimes grave hunters, or taphophiles, visit cemeteries simply to enjoy photographing the monuments and the vast assortment of architecturally beautiful structures.

For any number of reasons, you find yourself visiting a hollowed burial ground of some form. Please read the list I’ve compiled below on cemetery etiquette. These are the rules grave hunters abide by. This helps keep our beloved hobby in good standing and lets others enjoy the peaceful confines of cemeteries where history comes alive. Before you read the cemetery etiquette rules I’ve set forth below. Please take note that this list was compiled from various online sources (blogs/websites) related to cemeteries. The rules/etiquette list will not only keep you safe while grave hunting. It will also help you have a pleasant grave-hunting experience, no matter which cemetery you visit.

1. Follow the rules of the cemetery. Most (if not all) cemeteries/memorial parks have a large, noticeable sign posted near the front gates. This sign usually lists rules to follow while visiting that cemetery. Please follow these rules. If no rules are posted, this list you’re reading, which entails proper cemetery etiquette, is a fairly universal set of rules to follow.

2. Depending on the geographic region you’re in. Most cemeteries are open from dawn until dusk (example: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Try not to remain in the cemetery after closing time, because it is against the law, and you could end up in jail for trespassing.

3. Follow the roadways that intersect inside the cemetery, and drive at a reasonably slow speed; stay off the grass as much as possible. Watch out for people who may not be paying attention. If the lane is narrow and another car approaches, offer to move your car until they can get through.

4. If children are with you. Keep them nearby, and don’t let them play on monuments, trees, etc. This is not only disrespectful, but it may also damage the stone, trees, etc. Whenever you’re in a cemetery with a child, you should most definitely teach them to have respect for the departed in any cemetery. No running, yelling, or rolling around on the ground; a cemetery is not a playground and should not be treated as such.

5. Remember to be respectful by keeping voices down. Don’t use foul language. There may be other people there who are in mourning and tending to a loved one’s gravesite. As a general rule, it is best not to approach strangers, as they may want to be alone in peace; of course, it is perfectly acceptable to offer help to anyone who seems in need of it. Don’t use your cell phone; voices tend to carry in open spaces. Turn off your car stereo while driving or parking in the cemetery.

6. Don’t touch any monuments or gravestones unless you have permission to do restoration work. Some older memorials fall apart under the slightest touch. NEVER remove anything from a gravestone, like flowers, coins, stones, and other artifacts that have been left by family. This is by far one of the things I’m really strict about. As a grave hunter, you must show some decency and class.

7. If a funeral is in the process of taking place. You should definitely consider visiting that part of the cemetery at another time. NEVER interfere with a funeral procession. It is in extremely bad taste to take pictures of strangers at a funeral. These are people who should be left alone at their time of grief. Unless you are specifically invited to join them, respect them and their privacy.

8. Don’t leave any trash behind in a cemetery. Litter shows disrespect to others who come to visit the cemetery, as well as the caretakers. If you find litter, please help by removing it; however, if the cemetery is trashed or vandalized, try to find out who is responsible for its upkeep before doing your part and cleaning the cemetery. Most caretakers would be happy if you can volunteer to help. It may also be a recurring event, so tell the caretakers if there is or will be a police investigation into the matter; use caution and common sense before you alter the scene in any way.

9. If it’s not against the rules and you bring your pet, make sure to keep them on a leash and clean up after them.

10. While visiting a cemetery or memorial park, don’t vandalize ANYTHING. No buildings, monuments, grave markers, ANYTHING. Some find it amusing to vandalize or desecrate priceless monuments and other structures in a cemetery. If you see signs of vandalism, report it to the cemetery manager by phone or in person immediately.

This list was compiled from the website SaveAGrave.net. I thought it was a worthwhile list of etiquette tips to keep in mind, so I thought I’d share it on The Gravecast Blog site.