Memorials
There are many different types of memorials to choose from, including rose tree memorials and stone tablets. We can help you choose and order the right one. We also offer technical advice and ensure that all memorials in the cemetery meet our regulations.
All memorials placed in our cemeteries require an authorised permit for placement and must meet the prescribed regulations; a permit will only be granted for a specified time of any lease and upon expiry will require renewal.
The type of memorial permitted will be dependent on the lease type agreement you will have signed for in the terms and conditions and will also confirm your agreement to the council rules and regulations.
For more information about memorials, contact us on 0207 525 5600 or email cemeteries@southwark.gov.uk.
Memorial Grounds Regulations
We provide a number of rules and regulations to ensure the management of the cemetery, memorials, and remembrance gardens/grounds. These consider a range of factors that include health and safety, environmental impacts & bio-diversity and supporting wildlife and natural habitats.
Where a dedicated memorial is leased within the crematorium grounds, only one plaque per dedication is permitted and the plaque displayed must be an authorised plaque provided through the council memorial scheme.
Temporary grave markers require a permit for placement and are only permitted for a period of 12 months. These are required to be removed by your memorial mason when the authorised memorial is placed.
Please note we do not permit the following in our cemeteries and crematorium remembrance grounds.
No Garden Areas, Fences, Chippings, Artificial Flowers, Paving Stones, Trinkets, Wind Chimes, Balloons, Glass, Flags, Lanterns, Solar Lights, Soft Toys or other unauthorised items of memorabilia are permitted.
Only fresh-cut flowers may be placed within the designated memorial area.
The planting of shrubs, trees or bushes, and flowers is also prohibited.
Along with our delegated officials, we have the right to remove and dispose of such items without notice. We are not liable for any damage or disposal of unauthorised items.
We have the right to apply charges for the associated costs of removal and disposal and also withdraw to the offer of renewal of the lease at the time of expiry. In addition, if a subsequent application renewal is made, we have the right to refuse the application.
Memorial Safety Cemeteries
The Health and Safety Commission has advised all local authorities and clergy responsible for churchyards to check that their cemeteries are safe to visit for members of the public. Unfortunately, elsewhere in the country, there have been a number of fatalities and injuries involving unsafe memorials
We conduct inspections of headstones in council run cemeteries. Find out more about the inspections and our Memorial Safety Policy (PDF, 233kb).
Memorial services and charges
Page last updated: 14 September 2023
