A double monument and a double-depth grave are two different things. A double monument is a wide stone memorial built across two side-by-side burial plots. A double-depth grave is one plot dug deeper so two burials can be placed one above the other. One term describes the stone on the surface; the other describes how the grave is dug. So a family planning for two burials may need either a single-width monument (for one double-depth grave) or a double monument (for two graves side by side).
Before you choose a design, the cemetery needs to confirm what kind of plot your family holds, how many burials it allows, and which monument rules apply.
Comparison: double monument vs double-depth grave
| Comparison point | Double monument (two side-by-side plots) | Double-depth grave (one plot dug for two burials, one above the other) |
|---|---|---|
| What the term means | A stone memorial built across two adjoining side-by-side burial plots (also called a side-by-side grave monument or double monument) | A single burial plot dug deeper so two burials can be placed one above the other |
| Surface footprint | Double width, spanning two plots (a wide single headstone or twin panels, a double base, and full double kerbing and ledgers in monumental sections) | Single-plot width on the surface |
| Memorial used | A double monument (or a double lawn headstone in a lawn beam section) | A single-width monument or single lawn headstone designed with space for two inscriptions |
| Burial capacity | 2 side-by-side burials (or more if the cemetery also allows double-depth burials within each of the two plots, subject to cemetery rules) | 2 burials stacked in one plot (some cemeteries, such as selected SMCT monumental graves, also offer triple depth where ground conditions allow) |
| How the second inscription is planned | One panel (or one side of the wide headstone) is engraved first, and the second side stays in place for the later inscription | The first inscription sits on the upper part (or one side) of the headstone, so clear space remains for the second inscription later |
| Who confirms the plot | The cemetery, based on the right of interment (burial licence) for both plot numbers and the section’s monument rules | The cemetery, based on the plot’s excavation records, the right of interment and the section rules |
Can a single monument be used for a double-depth grave, and who confirms the plot requirements?
Yes. A double-depth grave holds two burials, one above the other, within the width of one grave, so it takes a single monument (or a single lawn headstone in a lawn section), not a double-width monument.
Only the cemetery can confirm what can go on a double-depth grave and whether the plot can take a second burial. Before choosing a design, check these points with the cemetery office in writing:
Depth and capacity: confirm the plot is recorded as double depth. This matters most if the first burial has already happened, because a grave normally has to be dug to double depth before the first burial.
Right of interment: confirm who holds the burial licence (right of interment), which is needed to authorise both burials and any monument permit application.
Reopening and design rules: a later burial in the same plot may mean parts of the monument, such as the ledger slab, have to be lifted and put back. Ask the cemetery and your stonemason what the section's rules require for reopening the grave.
How do I check whether my cemetery plot allows the double-monument design I want?
If your family holds two side-by-side plots in Melbourne or Sydney and wants a double monument, confirm four things before production is approved:
Both plot numbers and rights of interment: give both grave numbers to the cemetery to confirm the plots sit side by side with no path or obstruction between them, and that the right of interment holder approves one monument spanning both.
Monumental or lawn section: check whether the plots are in a monumental section (which allows full double kerbing and granite ledger slabs) or a lawn section (where the permitted memorial style depends on the section’s rules).
Written measurements and structural rules: ask for the cemetery's written rules for double monuments in that section, including maximum width, headstone height, kerb height and AS 4204:2019 foundation requirements.
Signed design proof: at John Stonemart Memorials, we lodge the cemetery permit application for you and prepare a written design proof showing the exact layout and measurements. Factory production only starts after you review and sign the proof. Installation usually takes 3 to 4 months from the signed proof (up to 6 months by contract), and remote proofs and completion photos are available.
Can I order a double monument after the first spouse dies and leave space for a later inscription?
Yes. If the family owns two side-by-side plots, ordering a double monument after the first spouse or partner dies is common in Australian cemeteries.
Why both sides are built at the same time: natural granite and marble vary from one part of the quarry to another over the years. If you build half a monument now and try to match it 10 or 15 years later, the shade or grain often looks different. At John Stonemart Memorials, both panels are usually prepared together to help match the colour and grain. Confirm the stone matching arrangements for your order.
How the second side is set out on the proof: we finish the first side completely, for example in 23-carat real gold leaf or your chosen lettering colour. Depending on your family's traditions and wishes, the second panel can stay blank until the time comes, or carry the surviving partner's name and birth date now.
What should I agree with the supplier about the cost of adding a second name and date to a double monument?
Adding a second name years later involves new cemetery permits, access to the site and more stonemasonry. Don't assume that future work is included. Ask your supplier to explain these points in writing before you sign the first order (our headstone and monument cost guide shows how first quotes are set out):
How the later inscription is priced: is it quoted when it's needed (based on the number of letters or lines, the lettering finish and the cemetery permit fees at that time), or is any of it covered by your original agreement?
Where the second inscription is cut: how does the mason add inscriptions at your cemetery, and what do they need to match the original font, letter depth and gold leaf or paint finish?
Who arranges and pays for lifting and replacing the ledger slab: for a full monument (a single monument on a double-depth plot, or one side of a full double monument), what work is needed to lift the ledger slab before the second burial and put it back afterwards, and how is it quoted?
Future cemetery permit fees: check with the cemetery whether a separate permit application and fee apply when the second inscription is added or the grave is reopened.
Frequently asked questions
Can a single monument be used for a double-depth grave, and who confirms the plot requirements?
Yes. A double-depth grave holds two burials, one above the other, within the width of one plot, so it uses a single monument (or single lawn headstone) with room for two inscriptions. Only the cemetery can confirm whether your plot is double depth and which monument rules apply.
How do I check whether my cemetery plot allows the double-monument design I want?
Give both plot numbers to the cemetery office to confirm you hold the right of interment for both graves, check whether the section allows a full double monument or a double lawn headstone, and check the cemetery's written size and foundation rules before you sign the design proof.
Can I order a double monument after the first spouse dies and leave space for a later inscription?
Yes. If you hold two side-by-side plots, you can order a double monument after the first partner dies. Both panels are usually prepared together to help match the colour and grain. Confirm the stone matching arrangements for your order. The second panel stays in place for the second inscription to be added later.
What should I agree with the supplier about the cost of adding a second name and date to a double monument?
Before ordering, ask the mason to confirm in writing how future inscriptions are priced and done, what lifting and replacing of stone is needed before the second burial, and whether separate cemetery permit fees apply when the second inscription is added.
Need help with a double monument or a double-depth grave?
To talk about a double monument in Melbourne or Sydney, or to get an itemised quote for your family’s plot, call John Stonemart Memorials on 0417 670 613, email [email protected], or use our contact page.