As a reminder to those who enjoy this unique and amazing place, please remember to show proper respect. While cemeteries are part of everyday life, when visiting them, everyone should remember to respect both the living and the dead. Many are often confused or unsure of cemetery rules and basic etiquette, and these are posted near each entrance and throughout the grounds.
Also, remember to check and observe floral regulations.
Do not touch any monuments or gravestones without permission to do restoration work. Some older memorials can crumble with even the slightest touch.
Never remove anything from a memorial, like flowers, coins, stones, and other objects that have been left by family.
When visiting the cemetery by car, follow the roadways, watch out for pedestrians and people who may not be paying attention, drive slowly, and remain off the grass.
If the lane is narrow and another car approaches, offer to move your car until they can get through.
Do not bring dogs or other pets into the cemetery.
Children are encouraged to visit the cemetery, but parents are advised to keep them nearby and not to let them play on any of the monuments.
This is not only disrespectful but may cause damage to the stone. Teaching children to have respect for any cemetery is encouraged.
While it is an important open space, a cemetery is not a playground and should not be treated as such.
If a funeral is occurring, consider visiting at another time. Never block or impede funeral processions. It is considered extremely impolite to take pictures of strangers at a funeral. These individuals are in mourning, and their privacy should be respected during their time of grief. Always strive to be respectful by keeping voices low and avoiding bad language; people may be within earshot seeking solace.
As a general rule, it is best not to approach strangers, as they may prefer to be left alone within the peace of their surroundings; of course, it is perfectly acceptable to offer help to anyone who is seemingly in need.
Do not talk on a cell phone, as voices tend to carry in open spaces and down hillsides. Also, turn off car stereos while driving or parking in the Cemetery.
Do not leave any trash behind in the cemetery. Litter shows disrespect to those who come to visit the cemetery as well as to the caretakers.
Report incidents of vandalism or theft to the police or at the cemetery office. It is an unfortunate truth that people come to vandalize or steal from cemeteries.
These rules and guidelines not only maintain the peace and order necessary in managing this hallowed public space but also help everyone who passes through the cemetery gates to have a much more enjoyable experience. Those who administer and guide the operations at the Salt Lake City Cemetery firmly believe that cemeteries are for the living.
During business hours, cemetery staff is available in the sexton’s house to assist visitors with navigating the cemetery grounds, conducting genealogical research, or providing further detail about historical figures buried here. Individuals from different walks of life are interred in the Salt Lake City Cemetery, and the grounds are officially nondenominational.
However, because of the location and natural beauty, other religious groups established cemeteries adjacent to the Salt Lake City Cemetery. Visitors to these cemeteries should be mindful and respectful of any additional customs, rules, or hours of operation.
Thank you for visiting this amazing jewel of Salt Lake City!
Cemeteries are for the living. Come enjoy their beauty, learn about the history, and enjoy the urban forest and wildlife that reside within the boundaries of this amazing place.
Cemetery Ground Hours
Open 365 days
8:00am – dusk
Cemetery Office Hours
Monday – Friday
7:30am – 4:00pm
Contact Us
Cemetery@slc.gov
(801)596-5020