Richmond National Cemetery

Our cemetery floral regulations exist only to reflect the honor and respect we hold for our Nation's Veterans, by preserving the dignity and solemnity of their final resting place.

Fresh cut flowers may be placed at gravesites at any time using cemetery-supplied floral vases. The vases may be found in a bin at the front of the cemetery next to the trash receptacle.

Floral items will be removed from gravesites when they become faded or unsightly, for mowing and maintenance, or if damaged by weather or wildlife. Due to the open nature of the grounds, we cannot guarantee against theft, vandalism, or the effects of nature.

Artificial floral arrangements may be placed on gravesites starting November 1 through April 1. Potted plants may only be placed on gravesites for a period extending 7 days before through 7 days after Easter Sunday.

Seasonal items such as Christmas wreaths (18" or smaller), grave floral blankets (not to exceed 2'x3') and potted poinsettias may be placed on gravesites beginning December 1 through January 10. These items will be removed by January 20.

Please do not secure floral items or other types of decorations to headstones or markers.

A maximum of two U.S. flags may be placed on gravesites. Flags will be removed and properly disposed of when they are damaged, faded, tattered or otherwise unserviceable.

The following items are prohibited for placement at a gravesite, columbarium, or memorial wall and are subject to removal by cemetery staff:

• Alcoholic products
• Balloons, pinwheels, wind chimes, lights, candles, statues, stuffed animals, or other similar items
• Decorative and breakable glass or plastic items
• Non-government supplied floral containers (pots, planters, vases, etc.)
• Any objects that could become projectiles when caught in grounds maintenance equipment (such as rocks, coins, or other small durable objects)
• Offensive items or those deemed inconsistent with the cemetery setting
• Permanent in-ground plantings
• Weapons of any kind, explosives, or ammunition
• Any object attached to headstones, markers, or niche covers

These rules are covered by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations 38 C.F.R. §1.218. All items placed on gravesites become the property of the US Government and will be disposed of under federal regulations.

Weapons Policy
VA regulations 38 CFR 1.218 prohibit the carrying of firearms (either openly or concealed), explosives or other dangerous or deadly weapons while on VA property, except for official purposes, such as military funeral honors.

Possession of firearms on any property under the charge and control of VA is prohibited. Offenders may be subject to a fine, removal from the premises, or arrest.

Cemetery Contact Information
Hampton National Cemetery manages this cemetery. Staff is available at Ft. Harrison National Cemetery for local assistance and can be reached at 804-795-2031. Otherwise, you may also contact Hampton National Cemetery at:
Phone: 757-723-7104
Fax: 757-723-0027

Military Funeral Honors
U.S. Air Force: 800-325-4986
U.S. Army: 804-734-6606
U.S. Coast Guard: 757-398-6390
U.S. Marine Corps: 866-826-3628
U.S. Navy: 866-203-7791

Directions from Nearest Airport
Cemetery is located on Highway 60 East at the corner of Government and Williamsburg Roads. It can be reached from Interstate 64 by turning off at Nine Mile Road exit, then east to stop light at Masonic Lane to stop light at Williamsburg Road (about two miles). Then turn right on Williamsburg Rd. The cemetery is located about half a mile on the left side of the road. Richmond International Airport is located approximately five miles east of the cemetery just off U.S. Route 60.