Every site is unique in its ability to be developed as a cemetery.  An open pastureland may seem ideal but prove to be difficult for establishing a traditional cemetery.  That is why this phase of the project is critical to the success of any cemetery.

 Matherly Cemetery Planning Services will investigate every known resource to determine the following:

• Depth to rock, and if the rock can be easily fractured.
• Depth of water table.
• Available utilities to serve the cemetery office and/or maintenance facilities.
• Easements crossing the site that would restrict its use as a cemetery.
• Streams and resulting flood areas that cannot be used for interments.
• Local setback ordinances.
• Archaeological restraints.
• Historical preservation requirements.
• Referral of local professionals that the Board/Committee is comfortable with using.

 Prior to commencing any conceptual plan, the above information should be made known to the planner.  Cemetery Boards and Committees can assist the planner by providing local contact information at this initial meeting.