Understanding Special Districts

Special districts in California are local government entities established to perform specific functions within defined boundaries. These agencies, which can range from small to large, often span city and county lines to serve shared community needs. Their clear alignment of name and purpose fosters public accountability and high customer satisfaction, making them essential contributors to local governance and quality of life.

There are two types of special districts:

1. Independent Special Districts: These are standalone local agencies created through local petition or popular vote. They operate autonomously and are directly accountable to their constituents, not another government body.
2. Dependent Special Districts: These are extensions of cities or counties, relying on their parent governments for oversight and accountability.

Independent special districts, like the Madera Cemetery District, exemplify self-governance and direct service to their communities.

Serving the Community Since 1945

The Madera Cemetery District (MCD), founded by a vote of local residents and property owners in 1945, is one of California’s largest public cemetery districts. MCD oversees five historic cemeteries, offering dignified, affordable final resting places for qualified residents and their families.

Affordable, Quality Service for All

Subsidized by property taxes, MCD offers affordable burial options, including ground burials, mausoleums, niches, urn gardens, and an ossuary. Our services meet both “pre-need” and “at-need” arrangements, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for Madera County families. Each cemetery is classified as an “Endowment Care” facility, meaning perpetual care is funded through endowment fees, ensuring consistent maintenance and care for future generations.

A Community Mission

As an independent district governed by an appointed Board of Trustees, MCD is committed to honoring Madera County’s heritage, preserving its cemeteries’ dignity, and offering affordable services to residents. In addition to burial services, MCD hosts veteran and patriotic events throughout the year.

We invite you to consider our historic and beautifully maintained cemeteries as a tribute to your loved ones or as a final resting place for yourself.

Mission Statement

To compassionately provide diverse burial options while maintaining, enhancing, and preserving the historic grounds for the benefit of Madera County residents and their families.

Important Information about the Madera Cemetery District

• Scheduling: Families or mortuary staff must contact cemetery staff to confirm available dates and times before arranging chapel or church services.
• Paperwork: The next of kin is required to sign necessary documents, including the interment order and sales invoice.
• Payment: All fees must be paid at least 48 hours before the scheduled burial.
• Pallbearers: Families or the mortuary are responsible for arranging pallbearers or pre-setting the casket. Limited staff assistance is available, especially on weekends; advance notice is appreciated.
• Affordable Fees: Cemetery services are more affordable than private options due to funding from property taxes.
• Services Provided: The cemetery does not offer mortuary or chapel services; graveside or arbor services only.
• Markers and Flowers: These must be purchased from an external provider, such as a mortuary or monument company, and must meet District specifications.
• Endowment Care: A one-time, non-refundable endowment fee is collected for perpetual maintenance of the grounds. This fee applies to all burial spaces, mausoleums, niches, and cremation sites.

Our Cemeteries

• Arbor Vitae Cemetery (1885): Founded by the Ladies Social Aid Society of Madera-Fresno County.
• Calvary Cemetery (1889): Donated by the Roman Catholic Monterey-Fresno Diocese in 1946.
• Oakhill Cemetery (Oakhurst, 1875): Began as a family burial site; joined MCD in 1955.
• North Fork Cemetery (1910): Created with a U.S. Forest Service land permit, integrated into MCD in 1957.
• Raymond Cemetery (1905): Originally started by the Woodsmen of the World, it became part of MCD in 1953.

Each of these cemeteries, some dating back to the late 1800s, is managed with a focus on preserving their natural beauty, historical significance, and serene landscapes. MCD is also home to the “Little Church on the Hill” at Oakhill Cemetery, a historic chapel available for tours, weddings, and community events.