Cemetery paperwork guidancePermit forms, affidavits and sketches can differ from cemetery to cemetery.
Before a tombstone is installed, removed, re-erected or altered, the cemetery may require an application form, next-of-kin permission, an affidavit, grave details and a sketch with exact measurements. The safest route is to speak to Ben West Memorials first so we can guide you on the correct process for that cemetery.
Important: cemetery offices can ask for different documents depending on the grave, cemetery area, whether the stone is new, whether an old stone must be removed, and whether a second burial or re-erection is involved. Please confirm with us before you travel to the cemetery or police station.
1Send us cemetery detailsCemetery name, grave number, block/section and family contact details.
2We prepare stone detailsWe provide the sketch/measurements where the cemetery requires it.
3Family completes permissionApplication, affidavit or cemetery form may need to be done by the family.
4Installation is bookedOnce approval is granted, we arrange installation or removal.
Municipality & cemetery guidance
JHB City Parks
Johannesburg City Parks cemeteries
For a new stone, the customer/family usually needs to apply at the cemetery and obtain the cemetery permission form or slip before installation can happen.
- Customer/family applies at the cemetery office.
- An affidavit or supporting permission document may be requested.
- The family may receive a pink slip/form giving permission for the stone.
- The same permission process can apply when an existing stone must be removed or worked on.
- Speak to us before going, so we can tell you what stone sketch/measurements may be needed.
Ekurhuleni
Ekurhuleni cemeteries
Ekurhuleni permit paperwork may require the memorial plan and measurements. For removals, the family may need to complete an affidavit and visit the cemetery before the stone is removed.
- Permit form may need to be completed in duplicate.
- Plan/sketch and measurements of the proposed memorial work may be required.
- For removal of a stone, the family may need a police affidavit.
- The family should be available/present when the cemetery requires it for removals.
Govan Mbeki / Secunda
Govan Mbeki / Secunda area
For old graves or later installations, approval can take time once the documents have been submitted. Funeral stones can sometimes be handled faster where it forms part of the funeral process.
- Application should be sent before installation and include a sketch with exact measurements.
- For a normal later installation, permit approval can take around 2–3 weeks after the client has sent the required documents.
- For a funeral stone, approval may be possible in the same week, depending on the cemetery process and documents.
- Always confirm dates with us before booking installation.
Download permit forms
PDF
Ekurhuleni Memorial / Plaque Permit
Use this for Ekurhuleni cemetery areas where a permit is required for memorial or plaque work.
Download Ekurhuleni FormPDF
Govan Mbeki Memorial Stone Application
Use this for Govan Mbeki Municipality cemetery areas, including Secunda/Leandra-related installations.
Download Govan Mbeki FormWhat customers should normally have ready
- Full name of deceased.
- Cemetery name.
- Grave number, block, row or section.
- Next-of-kin or applicant details.
- Stone design or gallery reference.
- Memorial size/measurements if already known.
- Affidavit where the cemetery requests it.
- Permission slip/form from the cemetery where required.
Not sure which form you need?
Send us the cemetery name and grave details. We will guide you before you waste time standing in the wrong queue or submitting the wrong paperwork.
