When a cemetery plot or grave is purchased, the cemetery retains ownership of the land. The purchase allows the owner the right to be buried on cemetery property. The burial right ownership is in perpetuity. It can be transferred to a family or willed to another family member or friend; however, if the lot remains empty after 50 years from the date of purchase, the original owner’s family has the right to renew it for another 50 years. If this does not occur, the lot or grave will revert back to the city.