An interment right can be purchased as a "pre-need" (holds rights over the plot for future use) or "at need" (for immediate use).
- An interment right is a contract between the cemetery operator (Council) and a right holder
- An interment right is an "interest" in the land but the right holder does not become the owner of the land
- Interment rights apply to burials in earth, mausoleums, crypts, vaults and also niche/columbarium walls
To purchase the right over a plot, Council and the right holder must enter a contract. The contract form must include the full name and address of the person/persons to whom the interment right is to be issued. Once payment is received, an interment right will be issued in the holder’s name, stating details of the cemetery, section, row and grave number. The purchase of an interment right entitles the owner to, exclusive right of the plot for interment either bodily or ashes or both as specified in the contract.
The interment right may be transferred to another person on request by the right holder. This application must be made in writing on the appropriate transfer form. Once processed all rights are transferred to the new right holder.
If the holder of the interment right dies or is not available the interment right is considered to be part of the holder's estate. The holder's executor or heirs and successors would usually administer the burial right under these circumstances. A transfer of interment right as a bequest should be undertaken to ensure records are maintained.
It is the responsibility of the family to let Council know if the deceased hold s a current interment right.
Up to two burials or the placement of up to six sets of ashes may occur in the same grave site. However, unless specified at the time of digging graves are dug to only accommodate one occupant.
Prior to a burial being conducted an application for Order of Interment must be submitted to Council at least four days prior to the burial taking place. The application must include a copy of the death certificate, coroners order or other order authorising the disposal for the body.
Council's fees associated with the Application for Order of Interment can be found in Council's Fees and Charges and inclusions may vary depending on cemetery.
An application for order of interment will include name of deceased, last address, sex, date of birth, date of death, occupation (if known), funeral director details, requirements of the plot (coffin/casket, dimensions), copy of death certificate.
Generally this document will be provided by the funeral director. In some cases however, the funeral director may request that Council undertake all paperwork relating to the Council cemetery.
Please note: Prior to any purchase of a plot all applicants MUST make themselves aware of Council’s policy in relation to cemetery operations, plaques and monuments for the cemeteries as there are restrictions.
Maps of the cemeteries are available from council. Please contact our cemeteries team on 1300 345 345 or via email council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au to request a copy.
Council keeps a list of all people buried in council managed cemeteries. In order to maintain this upkeep, please provide all appropriate details to council when applying for burial or interment.
Council currently has in development an on-line application of records. This is expected to be launched by the conclusion of 2024.
All fees and charges relating to councils cemeteries can be found in Council's fees and charges.
Fees associated with the cemetery are subject to annual review and the cost of a burial may vary between issue of interment right and burial.
Burials on private land
Council maintains a register of known private burial grounds. As Council's objective is to protect public health, no area can be used for private burials unless a development consent from Council has been obtained.
In order to establish a grave on a private property, consent must be applied for from Council. The application will be assessed in line with the requirements of the NSW Health Burials on Private Land - Approval by Local Authority' guidelines must be addressed.
Council is to receive application in writing and the current application fee is to be paid.
The land holding must be in excess of five (5) hectares.
The specified area must not be located where it could contaminate domestic water supply or drinking water supply.
The area is to be fenced or otherwise separated from general property and restrictions put in place so that livestock etc. cannot cause damage to the site.
Council's Environmental Health Surveyor must carried out an inspection of the designated area.
A right-of-way or other legal access for if/when the property is sold.
Once a burial takes place Council must be informed of the name, age, date of death etc. of the person to be buried so that the local register of burials may be maintained.
A copy of the death certificate is to be provided.
A map showing the exact location of the burial site.