Purchasing a Headstone

Under English law, the Council can grant permission only to the owner of the Right of Burial (named on the Deed of Grant), or to someone with the owner’s written authority. If you’re unsure who owns the grave, please check with the cemetery office first.

Only masons on our approved list may work in our cemeteries. To join, a mason must be registered with BRAMM, NAMM and Companies House, hold Employer, Public Liability, Professional Indemnity and Product Liability insurance, and work to BS 8415.

Visit the cemeteries and look at masons’ work in place. Masons inscribe their name on the back of each memorial, so you’ll often find examples near your grave.

Ask your chosen mason to formally apply to the Cemetery Office before you confirm your order, presenting the Deed of Grant. Don’t enter any financial agreement until permission and ownership are confirmed. Make sure your written order includes: assurance the memorial can be removed if the grave is reopened (and any cost); a photo or specification; the inscription; the agreed price; and the completion date.

The risk of damage is very low, but we strongly recommend insuring your memorial. Your mason can usually help you arrange suitable cover.

The memorial remains the owner’s property and does not revert to the Council. The owner is responsible if it becomes unsafe and causes damage. The Council may remove memorials after the right of burial expires, and a fee applies at the published rate. See the Memorial Safety FAQs (PDF).