Burials on Private Land Policy
Coorong District Council is seeking community feedback on its Draft Burials on Private Land Policy.
The draft policy provides a framework for assessing requests to bury bodily (non-cremated) remains on privately owned land outside of designated cemeteries. It establishes clear requirements and assessment criteria to ensure private burials are undertaken appropriately, safely and in accordance with relevant legislation.
Council recognises that some individuals and families may wish for a loved one to be buried on private land that holds personal or family significance. The proposed policy outlines the information required for applications, circumstances where approval may be granted, and conditions that apply if a private burial is approved.
Why is this policy needed?
At the moment, Council does not have a policy that explains how applications for private burials will be assessed.
This draft policy will:
- Provide a clear process for people wishing to arrange a burial on private land.
- Help protect waterways, the environment and public health.
- Reduce the risk of burial sites being disturbed in the future.
- Make sure burial locations are properly recorded.
- Ensure decisions are fair, consistent and based on legislation.
What does the draft policy propose?
The draft policy includes the following requirements:
- Council approval is needed before bodily (non-cremated) remains can be buried on private land.
- Noting cremated remains (ashes) can be buried or scattered on private land without Council approval.
- Applications must include information such as landowner consent, a site map and property title details.
- Burial sites must be a safe distance from buildings, water sources and flood-prone areas.
- Approved burial locations must be permanently marked and recorded on the property's Certificate of Title.
- Only one burial site may be approved on a property.
Things to Consider
A private burial site is not the same as a cemetery.
If the property is sold in the future, new owners are not required to keep the burial site or allow family members to visit it. They may also seek approval to move the remains. Families should carefully consider these factors before choosing burial on private land.
View the Draft Policy
📄 View a copy of the Draft Burials on Private Land Policy here [PDF - 293KB]
Ways to Participate
Read the Draft Burials on Private Land Policy and provide your feedback by:
- Complete an online survey
- In person: at one of Council’s Customer Service Centres (details here)
- By email: council@coorong.sa.gov.au
- By post: PO Box 399 Tailem Bend SA 526
Consultation Open: Friday, 24 September 2026
Consultation Closes: 8am, Friday 6 November 2026