Before installing a tombstone, you must obtain the necessary permissions. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Application for Memorial Work:
   • Submit a completed application form to the officer-in-charge at least 5 working days before the intended installation date.
   • Memorial work may only be erected during working hours, unless special approval is granted.
2. Written Consent:
   • You must have written consent from the officer-in-charge to:
     • Erect memorial work or bring materials into the cemetery.
     • Remove memorial work for additional inscriptions or alterations.
     • Install a tombstone on a Saturday, Sunday, or public holiday.
3. Compliance with Bylaws:
   • Memorial work must be made of durable materials approved by the South African Bureau of Standards, with a life expectancy of at least 25 years.
   • Inferior, indecent, or non-compliant memorials may be prohibited or removed by the Council without compensation.

Installation Requirements

The City of Johannesburg has strict guidelines for tombstone installation to ensure safety and uniformity. Key requirements include:

1. Foundation and Base:
   • Memorial work must be securely attached to a base with cement mortar.
   • The base for a single memorial must be at least 900mm (length) x 220mm (width) x 250mm (thickness) or as specified on the sketch we provide.
   • For double memorials, the base must be at least 2,286mm (length) x 200mm (width) x 250mm (thickness) or as specified on the sketch we provide.
2. Joining and Securing:
   • Use epoxy and silicone to join parts of the memorial
3. Ground Level:
   • Flat memorials and bases must be sunk at least 50mm below the natural ground level.
4. Cleanup:
   • All surplus materials and rubble must be removed immediately after installation.

Additional Guidelines

• Inscriptions:
  • The grave number assigned by the officer-in-charge must be displayed on the memorial in permanent and visible markings.
  • The name of the maker, designer, or erector may appear at the base of the memorial.
• Dismantling or Altering Memorials:
  • Only the holder of private rights or an authorized person may dismantle or alter memorial work, with written permission from the officer-in-charge.
  • Dismantled memorials must either be removed from the cemetery or left on the grave.
• Council Liability:
  • The Council is not liable for damage to memorials caused by subsiding soil.

Important Notes

• Cemetery-Specific Rules: Each cemetery may have additional requirements, so always confirm with the cemetery management.
• Professional Installation: We recommend using professional services (like ours!) to ensure compliance with all bylaws and regulations.
• Plan Ahead: Obtaining permissions and approvals can take time, so start the process early to avoid delays.

If you have any questions or need assistance with tombstone design, sizing, or installation, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you honor your loved ones with dignity and care.