Can You Be Buried at Home in the UK? Understanding the Law and What’s Possible
At Pearson Funeral Service, we’re often asked whether it’s possible to be buried at home, in your own garden or on your family’s land. The short answer is yes, it’s legal in the UK. But there are some important conditions and procedures that need to be followed.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the key legal and environmental guidelines around home burials, and look at a recent high-profile example: the private estate burial of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne.
Is It Legal to Be Buried at Home?
In England and Wales, there is no law that prevents a person from being buried on private land, including your own garden or estate. However, the landowner must give permission, and you must ensure that no restrictions (called covenants) in the title deeds prohibit burial.
If the land is jointly owned, or if you are a leaseholder rather than the freeholder, you’ll need agreement from all legal owners. In all cases, we strongly recommend speaking to a solicitor before going ahead.
Environmental Requirements
Even when permission is granted, there are strict environmental guidelines to protect land, water, and public health. Burial must take place:
- At least 30 metres from any spring or running water
- At least 10 metres from field drains
- At least 50 metres from any well or borehole used for drinking water
- At a depth that allows for at least one metre of soil between the top of the coffin and the surface
The ground should also be suitable; ideally free from shallow bedrock or groundwater flooding risks—and not located over utility lines.
Paperwork and Registration
Before the burial can take place, you must obtain a Certificate for Burial (known as the “green form”) from the Registrar of Births and Deaths, or from the Coroner in certain situations. After the burial, a confirmation slip must be returned to the Registrar within 96 hours.
You’ll also need to maintain your own burial register. This should include the name of the deceased, date of burial, and a clear map showing the location of the grave. It’s wise to register this with the Land Registry, especially if the property is likely to be sold in the future.
Planning Permission and Future Considerations
For one or two burials, planning permission is not usually required, as long as the overall use of the land remains domestic (e.g. it’s still a garden). However, placing a large headstone, or planning for multiple graves, could trigger planning rules and require formal permission.
Bear in mind that home burials can affect property values, and future owners may not wish to maintain access to the site. That’s why it’s important to think about long-term access, possibly through legal covenants or rights of access agreements.
A Celebrity Example: Ozzy Osbourne
In July 2025, the legendary musician Ozzy Osbourne was buried on his private estate in Buckinghamshire. The burial took place beside a lake on the 250-acre property, following a private funeral attended by family and friends, including Elton John, Marilyn Manson, and members of Slipknot.
This very personal farewell shows that home burial is a viable and meaningful option, even for those in the public eye. With the correct planning, legal oversight, and family support, it can be a fitting tribute.
A Word from Us
At Pearson Funeral Service, we understand that every farewell is unique. For some families, the idea of being laid to rest at home, surrounded by familiar places and loved ones, feels right.
If you’re considering a home burial, we are here to offer expert guidance. We can walk you through the legal steps, advise on environmental checks, and support you with all the necessary paperwork—ensuring your wishes are carried out respectfully and lawfully.
To speak with our team in complete confidence, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Pearson Funeral Service
Independent Funeral Directors | Compassionate, Professional, Local
info@pearsonfuneralservice.co.uk | 01484 844289
Photo by DEAD GOOD LEGACIES on Unsplash
