Memorials In Sussex: Understanding Churchyard And Cemetery Regulations

Losing a loved one is never easy, and creating a memorial to honour their memory can feel overwhelming, especially with the various churchyard and cemetery regulations in Sussex. But these rules are in place to preserve these sacred spaces’ aesthetics, harmony, and tradition.

Therefore, understanding them becomes essential to creating a lasting tribute that is both meaningful and compliant. This blog post will help you understand these rules and regulations when planning memorials in Sussex.

However, as it is an emotional situation, our experts at JF Stoneworks can help. We specialise in crafting bespoke memorials in Sussex, that reflect the unique lives of those you hold dear. From helping you choose the right materials and designs to ensuring your memorial meets all local regulations, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today on 01424 774497 or email us at to discuss your needs and start the process confidently.

Memorial Regulations For Cemeteries And Churchyards In Sussex

When planning a memorial, it’s essential to be aware that both cemeteries and churchyards in Sussex require a careful understanding of guidelines set by both local authorities and the Church of England. These regulations ensure memorials are respectful to the deceased and compliant with environmental and community standards.

Below is a detailed breakdown of Sussex’s key regulations, including types of memorials, application processes, material restrictions, and grave maintenance requirements.

1. Application Process For Memorial Permit In Sussex

Memorial Permit Requirements

• Memorial permit application: A formal memorial permit must be obtained from the local council or church authority before placing a memorial or modifying an existing one. The grave owner should sign this application.
• Approval process: Applications are reviewed for compliance with size and material guidelines. The work must be carried out by a memorial mason registered with BRAMM (British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons) or NAMM (National Association of Memorial Masons).
• Existing memorials: A permit is required to refurbish, clean, or modify existing memorials. In most cases, no fees are charged for this service.

Duration Of Memorial Rights

• 30-year rights: In some areas, a permit to erect a memorial is granted for a set duration (typically 30 years). After this period, the rights to the plot and memorial may need to be reviewed, and renewal might be required depending on local regulations.

2. Types Of Memorials And Size Restrictions

General Memorial Types

• Headstones: Commonly allowed in both churchyards and cemeteries. However, size restrictions generally apply, with churchyards typically having stricter limits than cemeteries.
• Flat tablets: These are often required to be flush with the ground, particularly in cemetery lawn sections. These memorials are simple and provide a uniform appearance across the graveyard.
• Kerbs and additional structures: Kerb sets, and large monuments are usually prohibited in lawn graves, as they can obstruct maintenance. However, traditional or non-lawn grave areas may allow larger memorials without stringent size restrictions.

Specifications For Memorials

• Baby and infant sections: To maintain sensitivity and uniformity, memorials in these sections are strictly limited in size and height. For example, headstones must not exceed 61 cm in height and 46 cm in width.
• Garden of rest sections: These areas generally permit flat tablets with a maximum dimension of 46 cm x 46 cm x 5.1 cm. To facilitate maintenance, memorials must be flush with the ground.

3. Material Restrictions For Memorials

Churchyard Memorials Material Restrictions

• Natural stones only: Churchyards typically require memorials from natural-looking stones. This includes materials such as:
  1. Dark blue/black Welsh slate
  2. Lighter stones like Portland or Purbeck stone
• Prohibited materials: Polished or brightly coloured granites, marble, and other artificial-looking materials are prohibited. These materials can appear out of place in a churchyard’s historic and natural setting.

Cemetery Material Restrictions

• Wider range of materials: Cemeteries allow a broader selection of materials than churchyards. However, the chosen materials must comply with industry standards and should not be offensive or out of keeping with the cemetery’s environment.
• Industry standards: Materials used must adhere to the guidelines set by accredited memorial masons, ensuring the integrity and safety of the memorial.

4. Inscriptions On Memorials

Churchyard Memorials Inscriptions

• Simple inscriptions: Churchyards encourage simple and clear inscriptions that include the deceased’s name, date of birth, and date of death. They discourage elaborate or decorative elements.
• No lead work: New memorials cannot include lead work, although it may be used for additional inscriptions. Some stones allow painted inscriptions, especially light-coloured stones, but lead is prohibited on newer memorials.

Cemetery Inscriptions

• Variety of options: Cemeteries may allow a broader range of inscriptions, including ornate designs. Gold or silver lettering is often allowed, particularly in areas designated for non-lawn graves.
• Design choices: Memorial masons can offer various engraving options, from simple text to more elaborate motifs. However, large images or photos are often restricted in churchyards and cemeteries due to grave maintenance concerns.

5. Maintenance And Safety Regulations

Maintenance Obligations

• Council inspections: Local councils conduct regular inspections to ensure the safety and compliance of memorials. Periodic checks are essential to assess the stability of the stones and any potential risks to visitors.
• Repairs and safety: If a memorial does not meet safety standards, repairs or removal may be required, with the grave owner bearing the costs. The memorial owner is responsible for maintaining it and ensuring its safety.

Responsibility Of Memorial Masons

• Accredited masons: Only memorial masons accredited by BRAMM or NAMM are authorised to erect, modify, or repair memorials. These organisations ensure that memorial masons adhere to industry standards and safety practices.
• Standards compliance: Memorial masons must follow strict regulations regarding the installation of memorials to ensure their safety and security.

6. Additional Considerations For Churchyards And Cemeteries Memorials

Items Not Permitted

• Photographs and mementoes: Many cemeteries and churchyards restrict the use of personal mementoes, photographs, and toys on memorials to maintain the neat appearance of the burial ground. This ensures the space remains respectful and manageable for future visitors.

Church Of England Regulations

• Faculty petition: Churchyards under the jurisdiction of the Church of England require a faculty petition to approve any memorial that does not conform to the established guidelines. This process ensures that all memorials respect the traditions and aesthetics of the churchyard.

Trust JF Stoneworks For Compliant Cemeteries And Churchyards Memorial

At JF Stoneworks, we understand that choosing a memorial for a loved one is a deeply personal and important decision. Our expert stonemasons are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your memorial is a fitting tribute to your loved one and complies with all Sussex memorial regulations.

With over 20 years of experience crafting hand-carved, bespoke memorials, we specialise in creating memorials that are beautiful and respectful of the natural surroundings. Whether you’re looking for headstones, plaques, or custom designs, we take pride in offering a personalised service that caters to your specific wishes.

We are proud to be NAMM-registered and fully compliant with the regulations set by local councils and the Church of England. Our team is knowledgeable about all the requirements, from material restrictions to inscription guidelines, ensuring that your memorial is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. When you choose us, you’ll get:

• Expert craftsmanship: Hand-carved, bespoke cemeteries and churchyard memorials tailored to your exact specifications.
• Compliance with regulations: We ensure all memorials meet local guidelines, providing peace of mind.
• Compassionate service: We understand the importance of this decision and provide sensitive, supportive advice.
• Accredited memorial masons: All our stonemasons are fully accredited, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.

Contact JF Stoneworks today on 01424 774497 or email us at to discuss your memorial needs and experience the professionalism and care that sets us apart.