The City of Cape Town is calling on residents, funeral undertakers, community organisations, religious bodies and other stakeholders to comment on the draft Burial, Cremation and Cemeteries Management Policy, which is open for public comment until 5 October 2026.
Cape Town’s growing population, shortage of available cemetery space and ageing infrastructure are placing increasing pressure on existing burial facilities, the City said.
The draft policy seeks to address these challenges by supporting the sustainable and efficient use of available cemetery space, planning for future capacity and improving service delivery.
It sets out a modern and integrated framework for managing these essential services in a way that is dignified, accessible, culturally sensitive and environmentally responsible, while responding to the changing needs of Cape Town’s communities.
In addition, the policy seeks to strengthen the management and protection of City cemeteries and crematoria, including addressing challenges such as vandalism, theft and trespassing, the City said.
It also responds to a range of current and emerging challenges, including the need for improved public information on burial and cremation options, stronger information management and record-keeping systems, clearer regulation and oversight of funeral undertakers, equitable access to City-assisted burial and cremation services, and more sustainable use of available cemetery space.
Support for vulnerable residents
A key focus of the draft policy is supporting access for vulnerable residents to dignified burial or cremation services when they cannot afford funeral costs.
“Death and memorialisation are deeply personal. They are tied to faith, family traditions, culture and finances, which is why the City cannot finalise this policy without hearing from residents and stakeholders,” said Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health.
“This draft policy is about dignity, clarity and care. It looks at how we manage limited cemetery space, how we support vulnerable families, how we protect cemetery spaces, and how we make sure residents understand the options available to them.
“I encourage residents, community organisations, faith leaders, funeral undertakers and all interested stakeholders to read the draft policy and share their comments. Every submission will help us shape a policy that honours our loved ones with dignity and supports the families they leave behind,” said Higham.
Environmentally responsible options
The draft policy also considers a broader approach of burial and cremation practices, including environmentally responsible and alternative options where permitted by law. This includes consideration of options such as green burials, cremation and vertical burials, as part of the City’s response to growing pressure on available cemetery space.
The draft policy aims to balance the need to manage limited cemetery space and municipal resources with the importance of ensuring that burial and cremation services remain dignified, accessible and culturally sensitive.
How to submit comments
Residents, community organisations, funeral undertakers and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft policy and submit their comments.
To comments visit www.capetown.gov.za or e-mail Public.Participation@capetown.gov.za
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