04/08/2025
Cornwall as a rural county with its abundance of fields and large farming communities, being buried on your own land is often considered a very fitting final resting place for those who have farmed the same ground for generations, or those who simply own a piece of land or garden that holds a special place in their heart.
Many aren’t aware this is even an option, and contrary to popular belief, it’s very straight forward to arrange and can offer a very personal, informal and memorable occasion, in a unique and beautiful setting.
The only regulations you must adhere to are the following:
✅ The grave must be dug a certain distance from any water source, such as a well, borehole or stream (consult your local council or environmental agency for their requirements).
✅ You must declare the grave within the deeds of the property or land.
However, there are some serious considerations to bear in mind when planning a burial on private land:
❓Thinking long term; Is the land likely to remain in the family for generations to come, or is there a good chance it will be sold to somebody outside of the family in the near future? This could mean access to the grave is difficult or not possible at all in the future (especially if it’s in the garden of a residential property).
❓The value of the property may be affected if you wish to sell in the future.
❓ As the surviving family, are you comfortable with having a grave in your personal and private space?
❓ If you move from this property, will you be comfortable leaving your loved one in that location? If not, an exhumation will be required, and these are extremely expensive and require a license from the ministry of justice. This can also be emotionally distressing for the family.
We have taken care of many burials on private land and always warmly accommodate this request.
If you have any questions or would like to know more about burials on private land, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
