A Guide to Roadside Memorials

Are Roadside Memorials Legal?

Before we provide ideas for memorials, we have to consider their legality. Unfortunately, there's not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question because there is currently no federal law governing roadside memorials. Each state, and sometimes each town or county, has its own law or ordinance as to the legality of a memorial. For example, in North Carolina, homemade or purchased memorials along public highways are forbidden, but the state's Department of Transportation offers memorial plantings that can act as a memorial to the victim. In some states, roadside memorials are legal as long as they are tasteful and don't block traffic or cause safety issues.

Before creating a roadside memorial for your loved one, it is best to check with your local authorities to ensure your memorial will not be removed for legal reasons. If the location of the accident is on private property, contact the property owner for permission to enter and build a memorial to avoid the issue of trespassing.

Roadside Memorial Ideas

Once you've determined that you can legally build a roadside memorial, you have many options for what to include. Here are some ideas that may help inspire you:

• Memorial Garden Stone: These engraved stones work well for roadside memorial markers because they are designed to withstand the elements, and many can be personalized with your loved one's name.
• Memorial Bench: If the location of your tribute is a safe spot for people to stop and rest, a memorial bench is a thoughtful way to honor your loved one. You can add an engraved photo plaque to it so that anyone who sits there can see whom its presence honors.
• Flowers: Blooms are popular ways to honor our deceased, but not all flowers are created equal. Cut flowers don't last long, and plastic flowers aren't environmentally friendly, so if allowed, planting flowers would be best. Small flowering perennials like daffodils or daisies are perfect because they require little maintenance and return annually.
• Religious Symbols: In times of heartache, many people lean on their spiritual faith for strength and peace of mind, so it's natural to want to add a religious symbol like a cross or Star of David to the memorial. Keep in mind that non-religious people may complain, but if it's allowed by law or the property owner, the choice is yours.
• Small Garden Statue: Whether an angel, fairy, or something that reminds you of your loved one, garden statues can be fitting tributes, and like garden stones, they are made for the outdoors and should last for years.
• Wreath: Like flowers, wreaths are traditional ways to honor the departed, but can be problematic. Ensure that the decorations used are secured tightly to the wreath, and if possible, find eco-friendly materials.

We're sorry you are in a position to consider creating a roadside memorial, but we hope this guide is helpful. If you have questions about any of the Outdoor Memorials we offer, reach out, and our customer care team will be happy to assist you.