Beginning March 15 through to October 15, residents are reminded that only fresh-cut floral arrangements in approved tribute holders may be placed on plots. Approved holders are available for purchase through the Cemetery Office, located at City Hall or free for use vases are available in the cemetery grounds.
Non-floral items (trinkets) placed at an interment site, including but not limited to ceramics, statues, frames, photographs, glass, boxes, shells, toys, wire screens, baskets or stands are not permitted on plots and will be respectfully removed.
Funeral flowers or any type of floral tribute is permitted on the day of the service and for a period of seven days following the interment.
In accordance with Cemetery Management Bylaw #5767 all items that are no longer permitted will be respectfully removed after March 14.
These changes align with the operational practices of many cemeteries across British Columbia and Canada, and take into consideration the safety of the public and cemetery caretakers, maintenance operations and environmental impacts.
The City of Vernon understands and respects the need for families to honour loved ones through the placement of offerings at gravesites. This is part of the grieving and healing process. The City welcomes these tributes, within the regulations and guidelines that are listed above, and which are common in many other communities.
The City will also provide public notice each spring and fall, to remind residents of the types of items that may be placed on plots throughout the season.
For more information, please visit vernon.ca/cemetery.
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