Burial Right

Burial right is the right to use a grave plot at a cemetery, which is established when a grave plot is reserved. It is not land ownership but rather a fixed-term management right that is recorded in the cemetery register.

Management Period and Renewal

Under Section 12 of the Burial Act, the management period for a grave is at least 15 years. In practice, parishes generally grant a 15–25 year lease. The management period can be renewed before it expires upon payment of a new lease fee. In family graves, renewal is common, and many families have maintained the same grave plot for decades.

The parish notifies the burial right holder in writing before the management period expires. If the holder cannot be reached or renewal is not made, the grave plot reverts to the cemetery.

Costs

The grave plot fee varies by location, parish, and grave type. A casket grave plot is typically more expensive than an urn grave plot. Parish members usually receive a more affordable price than non-members. The price is generally 200–1,500 euros, but may be higher in popular cemeteries in major cities.

In addition to the grave plot fee, there are maintenance costs. Many parishes offer a paid grave maintenance service where the parish takes care of plantings and general upkeep.

Obligations of the Burial Right Holder

The burial right holder is responsible for maintaining the grave and decides who is buried there. A neglected grave may result in contact from the parish and, in the worst case, loss of the burial right. The holder may transfer the right to another person with the consent of the parish.

Different Grave Types

Burial rights may apply to various grave types: individual graves, family graves, urn graves, or memorial grove placements. In a memorial grove, there is no individual grave plot, so no traditional burial right is established — ashes are placed in a communal area.

Read more about burial rights and choosing a cemetery in our practical guides.