Memorials

Order a memorial

Choose a rose tree or stone tablet memorial for your loved one. If you need help ordering the right one, email cemeteries@southwark.gov.uk. We can also tell you if your memorial idea meets our regulations.

All memorials in our cemeteries need an authorised permit for placement and must meet the prescribed regulations. A permit is only valid for a specified time on a lease. When it expires, it requires renewal.

The allowed memorial type depends on the lease agreement you will have signed. It confirms you agree with our regulations.

Memorial grounds regulations

Our regulations ensure the good management of the cemetery. They also apply to memorials, remembrance gardens and grounds. These factors include:

• health and safety
• environmental impact
• biodiversity
• supporting wildlife
• natural habitats

If a dedicated memorial is leased within the crematorium grounds, only one plaque per dedication is allowed. The plaque displayed must be authorised by our memorial scheme.

Temporary grave markers can only be used for up to 12 months. A permit is needed to use them. Your memorial mason will remove them when the authorised memorial is in place.

We do not allow:

• gardens
• fences
• chippings
• artificial flowers
• paving stones
• trinkets
• wind chimes
• balloons
• glass
• flags
• lanterns
• solar lights
• soft toys
• other unauthorised items of memorabilia

You may only place fresh-cut flowers within the designated memorial area.

You must not plant flowers, shrubs, trees or bushes.

We have the right to remove and dispose of unauthorised items without notice. We are not liable for any damage or disposal of unauthorised items.

We can charge for the costs of removal and disposal, refuse to renew a grave lease, and have the right to refuse any application.

We inspect headstones in council-run cemeteries. Learn more about the inspections and our memorial safety policy (PDF, 233KB).

For more information about memorials, contact us on 0207 525 5600 or email cemeteries@southwark.gov.uk.