Flat Headstones: Types, Designs, Prices and Cemetery Rules

What is a flat headstone?

A flat headstone is a memorial tablet installed flush with the lawn, usually on a concrete foundation or setting bed. Because nothing rises above the grass, flat markers keep a section open and even, which is why many memorial parks require them. The terms flat marker, flush marker, grass marker and lawn marker describe the same profile.

How is a flat headstone different from bevel and slant markers?

Profile	Shape	Typical reason to choose it
Flat	Level with the ground on all sides.	Required in lawn sections; simplest and most affordable.
Bevel (pillow)	Rises a few inches at the back and slopes toward the front.	Easier to read, better drainage; allowed where uprights are not.
Slant	Sloped face on a taller block, usually on a base.	More presence than a marker without the height of an upright. See our slant headstone guide.

Our guide to the 12 types of headstones compares every profile.

Which flat headstone designs are available?

The 2026 catalog lists 6 flat granite designs (starting prices in USD):

• Luxury Flower Shape Flat Granite Grave Marker — from $199.98.
• Luxury Maple Leaf Cross Flat Granite Grave Marker — from $673.67.
• Luxury Cross Flat Granite Headstone — from $1,515.00.
• Luxury Companion Caring Hands Heart Flat Granite Grave Marker — from $1,515.00, laid out for two names.
• Luxury Firefighter Cross Flat Granite Grave Marker with Roses — from $2,020.00.
• Luxury Companion Book Flat Granite Grave Marker with Sculpted Pages — from $4,040.00, an open-book design for a couple.

Most of these designs are offered in 9 granite colors; our granite color guide shows how each color looks with engraving and portraits.

Can a flat headstone hold two names?

Yes. A companion flat marker is wider and divides the face into two name panels, often with a shared symbol or epitaph in the center. Leave the surviving spouse’s death date blank for later engraving, and confirm that the cemetery allows a single wide marker on a double plot rather than two separate markers. For upright options, read our double headstones guide.

What can be engraved on a flat marker?

Names, dates, an epitaph, faith symbols, borders and artwork can all be engraved. On dark, even granite a laser-etched portrait is possible on many designs. Because a flat marker is read from above and weathers at ground level, deep sandblasted lettering stays the most legible over time. Our inscription and engraving guide explains each method.

What cemetery rules apply to flat headstones?

• Whether the section allows only flush markers, or bevels and uprights as well.
• The maximum size of the marker and whether a granite or concrete border is required.
• Whether a foundation is required and who may install it.
• Rules on vases, photos and decorations set into the marker.

The cemetery has final approval. Use our cemetery rules checklist and get the answers in writing before you order.

Do veterans receive a flat marker from the VA?

Eligible veterans can receive a government headstone or marker, including flat granite, marble and bronze markers, through the VA National Cemetery Administration. Many families choose a private granite memorial instead of, or alongside, that benefit; our veterans headstone guide explains the options.

What does a flat headstone cost and what is included?

Flat designs start from $199.98 to $4,040.00 in our 2026 catalog. The displayed price covers the memorial; taxes, cemetery and permit fees, foundation and installation are quoted separately. Complimentary delivery may apply to eligible orders within the 48 contiguous states; Alaska and Hawaii are quoted separately. See the full 2026 headstone price guide and current offers.

How do I order a flat headstone?

Choose a design in the flat marker collection, share your cemetery name through our quote form, or call +1 888 248 6813. You will receive a design proof to check every letter and date, and production begins only after final written approval and cemetery approval where required.