Memorial headstones
About memorial headstones in Isle of Wight Council Cemeteries
Cemetery memorials are a lasting symbol of remembrance. Our team can offer advice to ensure that all memorials are placed on graves safely and comply with regulations.
Memorials can only be placed on purchased graves. The owner(s) of the cemetery plot need to apply for the memorial installation before they can be erected within our cemeteries
Depending upon your cemetery plot type, you may be able to install a memorial stone (for both graves and cremated remains plots). With plots located within the traditional sections of our cemeteries, you may be able to apply for a memorial stone with a stone surround.
- we advise you consider your preferred type of memorial when purchasing an interment plot.
- it will take about a year for the ground to settle after a burial before you can erect a memorial.
- memorials can only be provided by approved stonemasons - they will deal with the permit and installation of the memorial on your behalf
- no memorial shall be removed from the cemeteries without the permission of the grave owner and without the consent of the council
Applications are organised through
your chosen stonemason. They will apply to the council for permission.
If you wish to erect, make changes or maintain an existing memorial, you will need to complete our Memorial Application form. Please speak to your chosen stonemason.
Applications make sure that:
- memorials meet safety standards
- display the correct information
- memorials are in-line with our current regulations
Cemetery regulations
Download the cemetery regulations for more information (PDF, 2MB)
Maintaining the memorial
All memorials are the sole responsibility of the grave owner, who must ensure the memorial is maintained.
We will periodically inspect the condition of memorials and any memorial classified as unsafe will be reported to the grave owner for them to arrange immediate repair.
Please keep your contact details up to date. If repair requests are not complied within three months, the council may remove the memorial.
The council has the power to remove any memorial, which they deem objectionable or of unauthorised type or size or which may have fallen into decay or is classified unsafe.
Insurance
We strongly recommend all grave owners obtain appropriate memorial insurance and regularly maintain or check them for safety. The council will not be responsible for any damage, theft or vandalism or any other circumstances beyond its control.
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