Private Burial Grounds and Cemeteries Bill [HL]

A Bill to make provision for the regulation of private burial grounds and cemeteries

Originating House

House of Lords

Last Updated

31 October 2023

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Bill would establish a regulatory framework for privately run burial grounds and cemeteries in the UK. It sets out standards for how these sites are operated, with licensing, oversight and enforcement to improve safety, transparency and accountability. If enacted, it would apply to privately owned cemeteries and burial grounds.

Key Points

Establishes a regulatory framework for private burial grounds and cemeteries.
Introduces licensing or permission requirements for operators.
Sets standards for management, safety, maintenance and record-keeping.
Provides enforcement powers and penalties for non-compliance.
Clarifies the roles of regulators and local authorities in oversight.

Progress

The Bill is currently at its First Reading in the Lords. It will move on to the Second Reading and further scrutiny in the Lords, before potentially moving to the House of Commons for consideration.

Who is affected?

Private burial ground and cemetery operators/ownersFamilies and communities who use private burial groundsFuneral service providers and cemetery staffLocal authorities and regulatory bodies responsible for licensing and oversightThe wider public and communities affected by burial site standards

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Private Burial Grounds and Cemeteries Bill [HL]

16 Jun 2022

The 2022-2023 session of Parliament has prorogued and this bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

HL Bill 31 (as introduced)

BillLords

15 Jun 2022

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Private Burial Grounds and Cemeteries Bill [HL] | TrackPolitics