{"id":175366,"date":"2018-03-22T06:00:05","date_gmt":"2018-03-22T04:00:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/germistoncitynews.co.za\/?p=175366"},"modified":"2018-03-22T09:13:25","modified_gmt":"2018-03-22T07:13:25","slug":"know-laws-regard-cemeteries-crematoriums","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/develop.citizen.co.za\/germiston-city-news\/news-headlines\/2018\/03\/22\/know-laws-regard-cemeteries-crematoriums\/","title":{"rendered":"Know the by-laws with regard to cemeteries and crematoriums"},"content":{"rendered":"

It is common practice among many South Africans, having different beliefs, to want to maintain a connection with their deceased relatives.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is vividly displayed at cemeteries, crematoriums and particularly during burial ceremonies. <\/span><\/p>

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Since the cemetery is a shared space for all communities, the metro has a responsibility to ensure that the community using the cemetery space have due regard to fellow users. <\/span><\/p>\n

To this end, the metro\u2019s cemetery and crematorium by-laws outline the limitations and parameters set to promote peaceful, communal use of these important facilities. <\/span><\/p>

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In terms of the by-laws, gardening and general care of cemeteries are the responsibility of the metro. <\/span><\/p>\n

Accordingly, any upkeep of graves should not include planting, erection, placing or leaving upon a grave any object or decoration. <\/span><\/p>\n

The only exception is within the first 30 days after interment when wreaths are traditionally laid as a symbol of remembrance. <\/span><\/p>\n

No person, other than the cemetery officer is allowed to plant a tree or shrubs in any section of the cemetery. <\/span><\/p>\n

The cemetery and crematorium by-laws also regulate the depth, length and width of grave excavations. <\/span><\/p>\n

The material of a coffin is also regulated in that it should be either in natural wood or perishable material. <\/span><\/p>\n

The coffins for cremations must be constructed of mainly timber or wood derivatives.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Those who require, as part of their religious rituals, to take an animal to the cemetery, must seek permission from the cemetery officer before doing so. <\/span><\/p>\n

During funerals, the cemetery officer has the discretion to allow or prevent any type of music that, in their judgment, is unseemly or unsuitable for a funeral. <\/span><\/p>\n

Contravention of the cemetery and crematorium by-laws, including disregarding the directions of the cemetery officer, is an offence, punishable by imprisonment or a fine, or both. <\/span><\/p>\n

The MMC for Environment and Waste Management Clr Ndosi Shongwe accordingly calls on all residents and entities in Ekurhuleni to abide by the by-laws. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe by-laws must not only be seen as a hindrance to practices that people have grown used to, they serve a societal role of promoting cohesion in communities, and providing solutions to the challenges of a developing community, such as a decreasing burial space. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe by-laws make provision for second and third interments for families who want to bury their dead in one grave,\u201d Shongwe said. <\/span><\/p>\n

Tombstones and other forms of memorial work cannot be erected on a Saturday, Sunday, public holiday or after hours (between 4pm and 7am).<\/span><\/p>\n

The metro is not liable for damage or theft of any memorial work. <\/span><\/p>\n

The comprehensive cemetery and crematorium by-laws can be found on the metro\u2019s website and can be downloaded for ease of reference (www.ekurhuleni.gov.za). <\/span><\/p>\n

Complaints, queries or suggestions regarding cemeteries or crematoriums must be addressed in writing to the Divisional Head: Parks and Cemeteries or logged at the call centre on 0860 543 000. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Have a story?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor)\u00a0<\/span>germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za <\/a><\/strong>or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor)\u00a0<\/span>leighh@caxton.co.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>or\u00a0Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist)\u00a0kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

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