Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (SNVMC) is a state-operated veterans cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada, about 30 minutes from Las Vegas. Eligible veterans are buried at no cost, including the plot, opening and closing, vault, headstone, and perpetual care. Spouses and eligible dependents may be buried for a $450 fee. Pre-registration is available but not required.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | No-cost burial for eligible veterans in a state veterans cemetery |
| Eligibility | Honorably discharged veterans, certain reservists, spouses, dependents, and Gold Star Parents |
| Application | Pre-registration form (optional) or at-need arrangement through a funeral director or the cemetery |
| Processing Time | Pre-registration eligibility determination; at-need scheduling typically within days |
| Official Agency | Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) |
| Required Forms | DD-214 (or equivalent), marriage certificate (for spouse), pre-registration form (optional) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Where Is the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery?
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located at 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005. It sits on 79 acres owned and maintained by the State of Nevada, near the historic Boulder Dam and roughly 26–30 miles southeast of Las Vegas.
Phone: (702) 486-5920
Fax: (702) 486-5923
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (some sources list 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; call to confirm)
Cemetery Grounds: Open daily, 24 hours
Driving directions from Las Vegas: Take I-515 South (which becomes US-93 South) toward Boulder City. The cemetery is located off Veterans Memorial Drive. The drive is approximately 30 minutes from downtown Las Vegas.
What Is the History of the Cemetery?
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery opened in 1990 as one of two state veterans cemeteries funded by the Nevada State Legislature in 1987. It operates under the Nevada Department of Veterans Services and is part of the VA State Cemetery Grants Program, which provides federal construction assistance to states that establish veterans cemeteries to complement the national cemetery system.
The cemetery has undergone multiple expansions. A VA grant approved in 2004 added more than 3,300 crypts and approximately 7,500 gravesites. A more recent expansion, completed in the mid-2020s, added approximately 5,432 cremation gravesites and 5,740 columbarium niches, extending the cemetery’s capacity for an additional eight years.
The SNVMC is the second-busiest state veterans cemetery in the nation, with 2,105 interments in 2023 alone. Since opening, it has performed more than 53,000 interments of veterans and family members.
Who Is Eligible for Burial at the SNVMC?
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityEligibility for burial at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is based on the same criteria used by the VA National Cemetery Administration, regardless of the veteran’s state of residence at the time of death. The cemetery itself verifies eligibility, so families should contact the cemetery directly for case-specific confirmation.
Veterans
A veteran is generally eligible if they:
Served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, and
Were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, and
(For veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or officers who entered service after October 16, 1981) completed a minimum of 24 consecutive months of active duty, or the full period for which they were called to active duty.
Reservists and National Guard Members
A member of a reserve component is eligible if they:
Attained 20 years of service creditable for retirement, or
Died under honorable conditions while serving on active duty or while performing training duty.
Spouses, Dependents, and Gold Star Parents
The cemetery serves eligible veterans, their spouses, legally registered domestic partners, dependents, and Gold Star Parents. The spouse or dependent does not need to have served in the military. However, if the spouse is also a veteran, they must complete a separate application.
Key rule for spouses: A spouse or dependent may be buried even if the veteran died first, provided the veteran was eligible at the time of death and the spouse did not remarry (for surviving spouses). Contact the cemetery for specific dependent eligibility rules.
Who Is Not Eligible?
Veterans discharged under dishonorable conditions.
Veterans who did not meet the minimum active-duty service requirement (for post-1980 enlistees) unless they were discharged for a service-connected disability.
Family members who do not meet the dependent eligibility criteria.
How Much Does Burial Cost at the SNVMC?
Veterans are buried at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery at no charge. The no-cost package for an eligible veteran includes:
Cemetery plot
Opening and closing of the grave
Concrete vault
Government headstone or marker
Perpetual care
Spouses and eligible dependents are buried for a $450 fee (subject to change), payable at the time of interment. This fee covers the same cemetery costs but is charged because the decedent is not the veteran.
What is not covered: Mortuary fees, funeral home services, transportation of remains, clergy, and military honors coordination are separate costs arranged by the family or funeral director.
| Cost Item | Veteran | Spouse/Dependent |
|---|---|---|
| Cemetery plot | $0 | $450 |
| Opening/closing | Included | Included |
| Concrete vault | Included | Included |
| Headstone/marker | Included | Included |
| Perpetual care | Included | Included |
| Mortuary/funeral home | Separate cost | Separate cost |
What Burial Options Are Available?
The SNVMC offers both casket and cremation interment options.
Casket Burial (In-Ground)
Eligible veterans and spouses may be buried in a casket in an in-ground gravesite. The cemetery provides a concrete vault. Casket burials for veterans and their dependents are “stacked” in the same plot, meaning the veteran and spouse are buried one above the other in the same gravesite.
Cremation Burial (In-Ground)
Cremated remains may be buried in a dedicated in-ground cremation section. Cremated burials for veterans and spouses are side-by-side, sharing the same plot.
Columbarium (Above-Ground Niches)
The cemetery has columbarium walls with niches for cremated remains. The recent expansion added more than 5,700 niches. An urn may be placed in a niche with a memorial inscription.
| Option | For | Arrangement | Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casket in-ground | Veteran + spouse/dependent | Stacked | One plot |
| Cremation in-ground | Veteran + spouse/dependent | Side-by-side | One plot |
| Columbarium niche | Cremated remains | Above-ground | Individual niche |
How to Pre-Register for Burial at the SNVMC
Pre-registration is optional but recommended. It allows the cemetery to make an advance determination of eligibility, which streamlines the process at the time of need. There is no fee for pre-registration.
Important: Pre-registration does not reserve a specific gravesite. The cemetery does not assign plots in advance. Gravesites are assigned on an “as needed” basis when a burial occurs.
Required Documents for Pre-Registration
To pre-register, you need:
A completed SNVMC Pre-Registration Application.
A copy of the veteran’s DD-214 (or equivalent discharge document).
A copy of the marriage certificate (if pre-registering a spouse).
If your spouse is also a veteran, they must complete a separate application.
How to Submit the Pre-Registration Application
You can pre-register by:
Online: Complete the NDVS Online Cemetery Registration Form at veterans.nv.gov.
By mail: Send the completed form and documents to SNVMC, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.
By fax: (702) 486-5923.
In person: Visit the cemetery office during business hours.
If mailing, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want confirmation of eligibility for your records.
How to Arrange a Burial at the Time of Need
At the time of need, burial arrangements can be made through a funeral director or by contacting the cemetery directly.
Step-by-Step Process
Contact the cemetery or your funeral director. The funeral home typically coordinates with the cemetery on your behalf.
Provide eligibility documents. The cemetery will need the veteran’s DD-214 and, for a spouse, a marriage certificate.
Schedule the committal service. The cemetery will coordinate a date and time for the service at its indoor facility. There is no fee for use of the service facility.
Arrange military honors separately. The cemetery does not provide military honors. The family or funeral director must request honors through the military service branch or a veterans service organization. Cemetery staff can provide contact information for organizations that assist.
Arrange clergy. The cemetery does not provide clergy. The family or funeral director must arrange this separately.
Pay the spousal/dependent fee if applicable. The $450 fee is payable at the time of interment.
Scheduling Timeline
The SNVMC does not publish a fixed wait time for scheduling burials. Families should contact the cemetery as soon as possible after a death to begin arrangements. The cemetery’s office is open Monday through Friday, and burials can generally be scheduled within days, depending on the service facility’s availability.
Military Honors at the SNVMC
Military funeral honors are not provided by the cemetery. They must be requested separately by the family or funeral director. The cemetery can provide contact information for organizations that assist with honors.
Eligible veterans are entitled to military funeral honors at no cost, including:
Folding and presentation of the U.S. burial flag
Playing of “Taps”
A rifle volley (for eligible veterans)
Honors are provided by the deceased veteran’s military service branch, typically through a funeral honors team. Families should request honors as early as possible, ideally when scheduling the funeral with the funeral director.
Unaccompanied Veteran Burials at the SNVMC
The SNVMC holds weekly ceremonies for unaccompanied veterans—veterans whose family members or friends are not present at the burial. These services are held every Thursday at 8:40 a.m. and include a live bugle rendition of “Taps,” a three-volley salute, and a flag-folding ceremony. The ceremonies are supported by the Southern Nevada Patriot Guard Riders, the Women Veterans of Nevada, and other veterans’ organizations.
These ceremonies ensure that no veteran is buried alone and are open to the public.
Rules for Flowers, Flags, and Decorations
The SNVMC maintains specific rules to preserve the dignity and uniformity of the cemetery.
Flowers
Fresh cut flowers are permitted in approved vases at any time.
Potted plants, baskets, artificial flowers, memorabilia, pinwheels, balloons, and glass of any kind are not permitted.
Decorating freedom trees, benches, or headstones is not permitted.
Flowers are removed weekly on the designated cleanup day (Wednesday). Items in violation of the policy are removed and discarded.
Flags
One American flag per gravesite is permitted, placed on the left side of the headstone.
An 8″x12″ flag is the recommended size for families wishing to place a flag at times other than Memorial Day.
The cemetery places American flags on graves each Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Volunteers participate in the annual Flag-In Day on the Saturday before Memorial Day.
Memorial Day and Wreaths Across America
Memorial Day Ceremony: Held annually on the last Monday in May.
Wreaths Across America: Held annually in December (typically the second or third Saturday) to place wreaths on each headstone.
Special Forces Ceremony: Held annually on the Sunday before Memorial Day at the SNVMC.
Annual Ceremonies and Events at the SNVMC
The cemetery hosts several annual events that are open to the public:
| Event | When | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flag-In Day | Saturday before Memorial Day | Volunteers place an American flag on each headstone |
| Memorial Day Ceremony | Last Monday in May | Honors all who died in military service |
| Special Forces Ceremony | Sunday before Memorial Day | Honors Special Forces veterans |
| Wreaths Across America | December (second or third Saturday) | Places wreaths on each headstone |
| Unaccompanied Veteran Ceremonies | Every Thursday, 8:40 a.m. | Ensures no veteran is buried alone |
VA Burial Benefits Available to Nevada Families
Even when burial occurs at a state veterans cemetery, eligible families may qualify for federal VA burial benefits. These benefits are separate from the no-cost burial provided by the SNVMC.
VA Burial Allowance
The VA pays a burial allowance to eligible surviving spouses or other claimants to help offset funeral and burial costs. For deaths on or after October 1, 2025, the 2026 rates are:
| Circumstance | Burial Allowance | Plot/Interment Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Service-connected death | Up to $2,000 | Up to $1,002 (if not buried in a national cemetery) |
| Non-service-connected death (VA hospitalized) | Up to $1,002 | $1,002 |
| Non-service-connected death (not hospitalized) | $300 | $1,002 |
Important: Because the SNVMC is a state veterans cemetery, the plot/interment allowance may not apply in the same way as for a private cemetery. Families should confirm with the VA. The burial allowance for service-connected deaths is generally payable regardless of the cemetery type.
How to Apply for VA Burial Allowance
File VA Form 21P-530EZ (Application for Burial Benefits) . You can file online at VA.gov, by mail to the VA Pension Management Center, or through a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) such as the VFW, American Legion, or DAV. Required documents include the veteran’s DD-214, death certificate, and burial receipts.
Deadline: For non-service-connected deaths, the claim must generally be filed within 2 years of the burial. For service-connected deaths, there is no time limit.
Government Headstone or Marker
The VA provides a government-furnished headstone, marker, or niche cover for eligible veterans buried in a state veterans cemetery at no cost. At the SNVMC, the headstone is included in the no-cost veteran burial package. If a private headstone was purchased, the VA may reimburse up to $441 for the headstone allowance.
Presidential Memorial Certificate
A Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is an engraved paper certificate signed by the current president honoring the veteran’s service. Eligible recipients can request a PMC using VA Form 40-0247. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. There is no cost.
Burial Flag
An eligible veteran is entitled to a U.S. burial flag, which may be presented to the next of kin. The flag is typically provided through the funeral director or the VA.
Comparison: SNVMC vs. VA National Cemeteries
Nevada has no VA national cemeteries. The SNVMC is a state cemetery, which means some rules and processes differ from a VA-run national cemetery.
| Feature | SNVMC (Boulder City) | VA National Cemetery |
|---|---|---|
| Operated by | State of Nevada (NDVS) | VA National Cemetery Administration |
| Veteran burial cost | $0 (plot, opening/closing, vault, headstone, care) | $0 |
| Spouse/dependent fee | $450 | $0 |
| Pre-registration | Optional, no fee | Recommended, no fee |
| Scheduling contact | SNVMC directly: (702) 486-5920 | National Cemetery Scheduling Office: 1-800-535-1117 |
| Military honors | Family/funeral director arranges | Can be arranged through the cemetery |
| Nearest location for Southern Nevadans | Boulder City (local) | Riverside, CA (~254 miles) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming pre-registration reserves a plot. It does not. Pre-registration only confirms eligibility; gravesites are assigned at the time of need.
Waiting to request military honors. The cemetery does not provide honors. Families must request them through the military branch or a veterans organization, and this takes time.
Forgetting the spousal fee. The $450 fee for a spouse or dependent is payable at the time of interment.
Not bringing the DD-214. Eligibility verification requires the veteran’s discharge document. Without it, the process can be delayed.
Placing prohibited items at the gravesite. Artificial flowers, glass, balloons, and other items will be removed and discarded.
Missing the VA burial allowance deadline. For non-service-connected deaths, file VA Form 21P-530EZ within 2 years of burial.
Assuming the cemetery provides clergy. The family or funeral director must arrange clergy separately.
Common Questions
Is the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery a national cemetery?
No. It is a state veterans cemetery operated by the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, not the VA National Cemetery Administration. It is part of the VA State Cemetery Grants Program and follows eligibility rules similar to national cemeteries.
How much does it cost for a veteran to be buried at the SNVMC?
There is no charge for an eligible veteran. The no-cost package includes the plot, opening and closing, concrete vault, headstone, and perpetual care. Mortuary fees and other funeral home costs are separate.
Can my spouse be buried with me at the SNVMC?
Yes. Eligible spouses, legally registered domestic partners, dependents, and Gold Star Parents may be buried at the cemetery. There is a $450 fee (subject to change) for a spouse or dependent at the time of interment.
Do I need to pre-register for burial?
Pre-registration is optional but recommended. It allows the cemetery to determine eligibility in advance. There is no fee, and it does not reserve a specific gravesite.
How do I schedule a burial at the SNVMC?
Contact the cemetery directly at (702) 486-5920 or have your funeral director coordinate with the cemetery. For VA national cemetery burials, the National Cemetery Scheduling Office is 1-800-535-1117, but the SNVMC is state-operated and should be contacted directly.
Does the cemetery provide military honors?
No. Military honors must be arranged by the family or funeral director. The cemetery can provide contact information for organizations that assist with honors.
What documents are required for burial?
The veteran’s DD-214 (or equivalent discharge document) is required. For a spouse, a marriage certificate is required. If the spouse is also a veteran, a separate application is needed.
Can I visit the cemetery anytime?
The cemetery grounds are open 24 hours a day. The administration office is open Monday through Friday, typically 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (call to confirm current hours).
What happens if a veteran has no family to attend the burial?
The SNVMC holds unaccompanied veteran ceremonies every Thursday at 8:40 a.m. These services include “Taps,” a rifle volley, and flag folding, ensuring no veteran is buried alone.
Is there a VA national cemetery in Nevada?
No. Nevada has no VA national cemeteries. The closest VA national cemetery is Riverside National Cemetery in California, approximately 254 miles from Boulder City. The SNVMC and the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Fernley are the state-operated options.
Can I get VA burial allowance if buried at the SNVMC?
Yes, eligible families may still qualify for the VA burial allowance, especially for service-connected deaths (up to $2,000). File VA Form 21P-530EZ. The plot/interment allowance rules differ for state cemeteries, so confirm with the VA.
What is the $450 spousal fee for?
The $450 fee covers the cemetery costs for a spouse or dependent who is not the veteran. Veterans themselves are buried at no charge. The fee is subject to change and is payable at the time of interment.
Key Takeaways
The Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery is a state-operated veterans cemetery at 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005, about 30 minutes from Las Vegas.
Veterans are buried at no cost, including the plot, opening and closing, vault, headstone, and perpetual care.
Spouses and eligible dependents may be buried for a $450 fee (subject to change).
Eligibility follows VA national cemetery criteria: honorable discharge, minimum service requirements, and qualifying reserve/Guard service.
Pre-registration is optional, free, and does not reserve a specific gravesite.
Military honors are not provided by the cemetery; families must arrange them separately.
The cemetery holds weekly unaccompanied veteran ceremonies every Thursday at 8:40 a.m.
Nevada has no VA national cemeteries; the SNVMC is a state cemetery, not a federal one.
Families may still qualify for VA burial allowances (up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths) by filing VA Form 21P-530EZ.
The cemetery is the second-busiest state veterans cemetery in the nation, with more than 53,000 interments since 1990.
Official Resources
Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (NDVS): https://veterans.nv.gov/cemeteries/southern-nevada-veterans-memorial-cemetery/
Nevada Department of Veterans Services: https://veterans.nv.gov
VA Burial Benefits and Memorial Items: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
VA Form 21P-530EZ (Application for Burial Benefits): https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21p-530ez/
VA Form 40-0247 (Presidential Memorial Certificate): https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-40-0247/
VA National Cemetery Administration: https://www.cem.va.gov
National Cemetery Scheduling Office: 1-800-535-1117
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