The placement of commemorative monuments in Arlington National Cemetery takes away land that might otherwise be suitable to fulfill Arlington National Cemetery's primary mission-burial and memorialization of deceased military veterans and their eligible family members. Therefore, in accordance with Title 32 Code of Federal Regulations Part 553, commemorative memorial monuments may only be placed in Arlington National Cemetery after they are authorized by a joint or concurrent resolution of Congress.
As a general matter, commemorative monuments which are authorized by Congress for placement must be submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts for advice and comment prior to acting upon or approving the plans and designs for the monument. Additionally, although not specifically required, parties seeking to place commemorative monuments in Arlington National Cemetery are encouraged to discuss their plans with the Commission of Fine Arts, and the State Historic Preservation Office for specific historical areas of the cemetery, prior to seeking Congressional authorization.