Guide to Choosing Between Private and Public Cemeteries in Ottawa

June 27, 2025

Deciding where you or a loved one will be laid to rest is a deeply personal decision. It’s not something people think about every day, but when the time comes, it helps to know your options. One of the major choices people face is whether to choose a private or public cemetery. Both types offer different experiences, and what works for one family may not work for another. If you're looking in Ottawa, this choice can be shaped by a few specific factors, from privacy and space to cost and access.

Whether you’re pre-planning or making arrangements during a difficult moment, having a good grasp of what separates private cemeteries from public ones can make the decision much easier. By looking at the differences in ownership, atmosphere, location and ongoing care, you can make a decision that respects both personal wishes and practical needs. Let’s look into the key areas that will help guide you in choosing between public and private cemeteries in Ottawa.

Understanding The Differences Between Private And Public Cemeteries

Private and public cemeteries both serve the same ultimate purpose, but how they do it can vary quite a bit. The main differences come down to how they are owned, managed, and what kinds of services or experiences they focus on.

Private cemeteries are usually owned by an individual, a religious group, or a company. This means they're typically smaller, more structured, and focused on offering a specific kind of environment. You’ll often find private cemeteries that are well-landscaped, quiet and orderly. They may offer more personalized services such as custom grave markers, family estate lots, specific sections for certain faiths or themes, and more private space for reflection. Some families choose private cemeteries because they offer a more peaceful or focused experience.

Public cemeteries, on the other hand, are usually run by municipalities or non-profit groups. They are generally more affordable and open to everyone, regardless of background, faith, or community ties. These spaces are often larger, and because they are publicly managed, they may have more open access and fewer limitations around burial types or religious practices. Public cemeteries can be a great fit for families looking for a simple, accessible location with fewer requirements up front.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main contrasts:

• Ownership: Private cemeteries are independently owned while public ones are usually run by government or community groups
• Size and design: Private cemeteries often offer landscaped grounds and limited spaces, while public cemeteries are larger and used by a broader population
• Access and rules: Public cemeteries tend to have fewer request-based services but more open availability. Private cemeteries may have stricter rules and more curated options
• Cost: Private cemeteries generally come at a higher price because of the extra features and privacy. Public options are often more budget-friendly but less personalized

Choosing between these two isn’t just about cost or preference. It’s about finding a place that fits your values, meets your expectations, and feels like the right setting to honour someone’s life.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Cemetery

Once you’re clear on the key differences between public and private cemeteries, the next step is to think about your own situation. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and what’s right for one family might not be right for another. When choosing between cemeteries in Ottawa, here are a few things to help you make a thoughtful decision.

Start with location. For many families, a convenient resting place matters. Think about how easy it will be for people to visit. A cemetery that’s far from home can lead to fewer visits over time, especially during the winter when driving may be more difficult. A space that’s closer or more accessible might make visits easier and more frequent.

Next, look at the cemetery's rules and layout. Every cemetery comes with guidelines that affect your experience. Some may have limits on the types of markers you can use, what decorations are allowed, or whether certain sections are open year-round. If your family values traditions like leaving flowers or small keepsakes, it’s a good idea to ask whether those are accepted.

Ownership also shapes the kind of care you can expect. Privately owned cemeteries may offer more direct assistance, guided options, or detailed landscaping. Publicly run cemeteries often operate with fewer frills but may offer a strong sense of openness and community. Understanding who manages the cemetery can help you feel more confident in the level of service and upkeep over the years.

While visuals and features are helpful, the overall feel of the space often matters more. Take the time to walk the grounds, speak with staff, and reflect on what feels right for your family’s values and routines.

Comparing Costs: Private vs. Public Cemeteries in Ottawa

For many families, cost plays a part in the decision-making process. The price tags between private and public cemeteries can vary quite a bit, so it helps to understand why.

Private cemeteries usually cost more overall. This is due in part to the added services and more detailed care they provide. Many private cemeteries offer extra features like custom plots, enhanced landscaping, or private family sections which increase both the value and the cost. You’re also paying for a more exclusive experience, with fewer visitors and often a quieter setting.

Public cemeteries are usually more economical. Since they are supported by the city or local government, the general upkeep is built into the structure, making the rates lower. While you might not find the same level of personalization or decorative landscaping, many public cemeteries are still well cared for and peaceful.

Here are a few common things that can affect pricing:

1. Type of burial space (traditional plot, columbarium niche, urn garden)

2. Location and size of the chosen spot

3. Memorial options such as headstones, plaques, or benches

4. Fees for long-term care or maintenance

5. Additional requests or custom services

When comparing prices between cemeteries in Ottawa, think about what really matters most to your family. If peace, privacy, or personal details play a big role in your choice, a private location may be worth the added cost. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more open setting with dependable care and access, a public space might be a better match.

Additional Services And Benefits

The services that cemeteries offer can vary greatly, and these can sometimes influence your decision more than you’d expect. Private cemeteries often aim to provide a more individualized experience. This could mean having a wider range of options for personalized memorials, more dedicated staff support, and spaces designed with specific themes or beliefs in mind.

Features at some private cemeteries in Ottawa may include private pathways, upgraded seating areas, access-friendly design for seniors or people with disabilities, and greater privacy for ceremonies or visits. Some even have seasonal planting programs or curated gardens for certain areas.

Public cemeteries typically focus more on access and simplicity. The grounds are usually maintained by the city, offering a consistent level of care. While they may not host many personalized upgrades, the overall layout is often user-friendly with clear paths and seating. They sometimes hold seasonal or community-wide memorial events, providing a shared experience for remembrance.

Both types of cemeteries can be meaningful places for families. The right fit depends on which types of features help you and your loved ones feel comforted and connected.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Family

There is no perfect answer when it comes to choosing between cemeteries in Ottawa. The right place for one family might not work for another, and that’s completely normal. Some families know early on the kind of place they want because of tradition or past experience. Others learn by visiting different locations or asking trusted contacts for advice.

We’ve seen that one of the most helpful steps is simply walking through a few cemeteries, speaking with those who work there, and listening to your instincts. One Ottawa family we worked with initially considered a more distant private plot, but they ended up choosing a public cemetery close to home so that visits would be easier over the years.

Think about the years to come. You may wish for loved ones to be buried nearby or plan on making regular visits. Consider how often the space will be used, what kind of support will be needed, and whether your family prefers a more traditional or customized approach. Each of these things can help guide you toward a choice that feels right both emotionally and practically.

This is a decision that can hold deep meaning. It creates a space for stories to be remembered, peace to be found, and loved ones to be honoured in a way that feels just right for your family. Taking the time to understand your options makes a big difference, both now and for the future.

If you’re exploring your options for a final resting place, understanding the differences between private and public choices can help you make the right decision. The team at Highland Park Cemetery is here to support you in finding a space that reflects your family’s wishes. Learn more about how different types of cemeteries in Ottawa can offer comfort, convenience, and the right fit for generations to come.