Frequently asked questions

This document is issued when a person has purchased the rights to bury in a grave for a set number of years. The council retains the ownership of the land itself. The grant should be kept in a safe place as it may be required if the grave is to be re-opened or additional work to a memorial is required.

South Staffordshire Council is responsible for general cemetery grounds maintenance. This includes grass cutting, shrub and hedge pruning and planting, tree works and the upkeep of gates and roadways.

Please note that from time to time it may be necessary to place soil on a grave adjacent to those that need to be prepared for an interment. Usually this is only for a short time and we will remove the soil and leave the area clean and tidy afterwards.

Yes, anyone can be buried at our cemeteries regardless of where the deceased lived. There is an additional fee if the deceased (or purchaser of a plot if buying in advance) has never lived in South Staffordshire. Please contact us for more details.

Yes. Family and friends that wish to carry a coffin to the graveside should ask for guidance from their funeral director on the safe way to do so.

Grave digging staff will backfill the grave following a burial. Family members may, at their own risk, backfill the grave but must adhere to instructions from grave digging staff at all times. Please let us know at the time of booking if you wish to backfill the grave.

We cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by others and with that in mind we strongly recommend that you take out insurance cover for your memorial. Your chosen memorial mason will be able to give you details on this.

It may take many months for the ground to settle following a burial and sometimes especially after heavy rain, sinkage may occur. Street Scene staff periodically check and attend to such graves but if you are concerned, please contact us by email bereavementservices@sstaffs.gov.uk