Headstones, memorials and plot care

Installing a headstone or monument

All headstones and monuments must meet the design, construction and installation standards outlined in our Cemeteries and Crematoria Bylaw.

To install a headstone:

• contact a monumental stonemason - they'll guide you through the process and make sure the design meets bylaw requirements.
• Application form - your stonemason will submit the application form to the Cemeteries Team on your behalf.
• No application fee - however, all designs must be approved before installation.

Maintenance of burial plots and headstones

Our Cemeteries Team maintains the grounds and gardens across all Council-owned cemeteries. This includes:

• lawn mowing and garden care
• monitoring and repairing uneven ground, including adding topsoil and reseeding grass where needed.
  Ground sinkage can occur naturally over time, especially after extended periods of wet weather.
• install concrete berms for new plots

If a headstone or monument becomes unsafe or falls into disrepair:

• our Cemetery Team may remove it to protect visitors and staff
• a photo will be taken before removal and kept on record.

Plot owner responsibilities

Families or plot owners are responsible for maintaining any headstone or personal memorials placed at their plots. This includes:

• cleaning and repairs to keep memorials in good condition
• making sure items are safe and respectful for all cemetery visitors.

For safety and maintenance reasons, certain materials and structures are not permitted around lawn plots. These include:

• fences and boarders
• shells, rocks or loose decorations.

We appreciate your help in keeping our cemeteries safe, tidy and welcoming for everyone.

Memorials placed after burial

At lawn plots, flowers may be placed on a grave mound for up to 2 weeks following burial. The mound will then be levelled and grass sown - timing may vary depending on weather conditions.

To help keep the cemetery safe and tidy:

• sentimental items must be placed on the concrete strip at the head of the plot
• please avoid placing glass, ceramic or loose items on the lawn area.

Vandalism or theft of memorials

Council is not liable for damage to or theft of private memorials in cemeteries.

Maintenance and costs associated with headstones, memorials or plaques remain the responsibility of the family.

Headstone installation and repair application form