Cemeteries

The Cemetery or Burial Grounds Act, Public Act 215 of 1937, MCL 128.1, et seq., gives townships authority to establish, control, maintain and care for public cemeteries that are not owned by another municipality or private organization, and to adopt an ordinance to regulate the operation and use of a cemetery.

In addition, the Vacating Cemetery in a Township Act, Public Act 49 of 1895, MCL 128.31, et seq., requires townships to reinter in a township cemetery remains disinterred from a private cemetery in the township, when 10 or more township residents complain in writing that the private cemetery is not being cared for.

Because Michigan statutes do not address many specific cemetery management issues, a comprehensive cemetery ordinance can help ensure the smooth operation of a cemetery. An ordinance can define the character of a township cemetery by establishing practical cemetery procedures that reflect the community's wishes.

MTA Sample Cemetery Ordinance

Veterans Burial & Memorial Benefits from National Cemetery Administration

State Tax Commission Memo (Taxation Issue)