Ohio seeks to hold cemetery operators accountable this Memorial Day – WHIO TV 7 and WHIO

On May 25, 2022

TROY — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many people will be visiting Ohio cemeteries to honor those who died while serving in the military.

The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing is responsible for the maintenance and operation of cemeteries. It encourages families and visitors to report issues that they see while visiting the cemeteries.

“For many Ohioans, Memorial Day is more than a time to barbecue or a day off from work,” said Commerce Director Sherry Maxfield. “It’s a time to remember those who gave their lives in service to this country. Cemetery visits play an important role on this occasion. We encourage those who visit their loved ones and heroes to report any issues to the cemetery property owners. If issues cannot be resolved locally, do not hesitate to contact our agency.”

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The division has laws and guidelines that all cemeteries in Ohio must follow for proper maintenance and operation and to help keep the cemeteries clean and inviting. Those guidelines include the following:

Grass mowing at least once a month
Removing trash and funeral flowers once a month
Maintenance and repair of roads, buildings, and fences as necessary

According to Maxfield if cemetery visitors notice that those guidelines are not met:

Bring it to the attention of the cemetery’s management
If the issue is not resolved, file a complaint with the Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission by downloading a complaint form online or by emailing [email protected].
Copy of complaint will be sent to cemetery operator for a response. If no response is generated within 30 days of the complaint, the cemetery operator will receive a notice to appear before the Commission.
The Commission works to resolved disputes through informal mediation.

In addition, the Division’s cemetery grant program provides the opportunity for cemeteries that are registered to apply for funds to help train cemetery personnel and for proper maintenance.

For more information, visit www.com.ohio.gov/divisions-and-programs/real-estate-and-professional-licensing/cemeteries.