Cemetery Decoration Guidelines
Our floral arrangements are designed to honour your loved ones while adhering to the sacred traditions and safety regulations of Catholic Cemeteries. To ensure your tributes remain beautiful and compliant with cemetery by-laws, please refer to the following guidelines for the Greater Toronto Area.
At a Glance
Decoration Zones
Mausoleum & Columbarium▼
To maintain a serene and consistent appearance within the mausoleums:
- Permitted: Artificial flowers and rosaries may be placed in the designated vase units on crypt and niche fronts.
- Removal Policy: Arrangements that become unsightly or encroach on adjoining spaces will be removed.
- Prohibited Items: Please refrain from placing fresh flowers, photos, cards, balloons, toys, or ornaments on crypt fronts to prevent clutter and potential damage.
- Lighting: For fire safety, only cemetery-provided memorial lights or crypt lights are permitted.
Flat Marker Graves▼
Decorations on flat markers vary by the time of year to allow for seasonal maintenance:
- April 1 – October 31: A bouquet of fresh or artificial flowers is permitted if placed in a vase attached to the marker. If no vase exists, a plastic cone-shaped spike (max 4¼" wide) may be used.
- November 1 – March 31: Wreaths on stands are permitted. After March 31, these are removed by staff to prepare for spring.
- Important Restrictions: To allow for grass cutting and machinery, flower beds, borders, fencing, or curbing are not permitted around flat markers.
- Safety: Unattended candles, lanterns, or glass items are strictly prohibited due to vandalism and safety risks.
Monument Lots (Upright Headstones)▼
For lots with upright monuments, families have more flexibility with planting:
- Seasonal Planting: Flower beds of annual flowers are permitted from April 1 to October 31. They must be located directly in front of the monument and extend no more than 1 foot from the base.
- Wreaths: Wreath stands are permitted from November 1 to March 31. Wreath saddles (placed on top of the monument) are permitted year-round, except on shared monuments.
- Maintenance: Flower beds must be maintained by the family. Unmaintained beds may be removed and sodded over by the cemetery.
- Restrictions: Planting of perennials, trees, or shrubs is not permitted. Do not bolt or glue vases or lamps to the monument.
⚠️ Important Note on Personal Items
For the dignity of the grounds and the safety of all visitors, items such as toys, ceramic/porcelain figurines, glass containers, and metal cases should not be placed on graves or monument lots. The cemetery is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or removed items.
“Honouring your loved ones with grace, compassion, and care.”
🌸 Compassion Flowers