Burials

It is possible to have a memorial erected after a burial. The council needs to approve any memorial chosen and a issue a permit.

Normally, the application will be completed and submitted by the memorial mason contracted to carry out the work. Only authorised persons who have properly approved insurance are allowed to carry out this work.

Memorials are subject to restrictions on size and materials. The permit may also restrict the time that a memorial is allowed to remain on a grave.

Nothing that may be easily broken or pose a danger should be placed upon a grave. Only natural stones such as marble, granite or slate may be used to surround graves. Wooden memorials may be permitted if they are made from renewable sources. Wire fencing, brick, concrete or wooden kerbs are not permitted.

The size of permitted surrounds is subject to the section of the cemetery where the grave is situated being designated as lawn, semi-lawn or full kerb. It is not possible to have a full-sized memorial with kerbs on any grave located in a lawn or semi-lawn section. It is important, therefore, to decide on the type of memorial before purchasing the grave.

Plastics, glass, ceramics and similar materials should not be placed on any grave.

The council carries out safety inspections of memorials and where one is found to be unsafe, action may be taken and a charge made for any work done to make it safe. It is recommended that memorials are inspected on a regular basis (at least once every five years) and specialist insurance, which is available through the local stone or memorial mason, taken out.

When choosing a memorial, remember that, if another burial is to take place, the owner will need to ensure that any memorial, plants or other objects are removed prior to the grave being opened.

Medway Council regrets that it cannot take responsibility for any items placed on a grave.

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