QR Codes on Headstones: Churchyard and Cemetery Rules in the UK

Before adding a QR code to a headstone, it is worth knowing who looks after the rules. In the UK that depends on where the grave is — and the rules differ from place to place, so the best first step is always a friendly question.

Council and private cemeteries

Cemeteries run by a local council or a private company have their own regulations for memorials. Additions to a headstone usually need the cemetery office’s agreement. Ask them directly — they will tell you what size and type of plaque they accept and how it should be fixed.

Churchyards

Church of England churchyards follow the regulations set by their diocese. Additions to memorials are usually agreed with the parish priest, and some need wider diocesan permission. Practice varies between dioceses and parishes, so speak to the church early.

Making approval easy

• Show a picture or proof of the plaque, so they can see its size and look.
• Explain that the code links to a respectful memorial page.
• Ask how they would like it fixed, or whether it should sit beside the stone.

If a plaque cannot be fixed

A free-standing QR memorial plaque can sit at the graveside when you visit, or at home. It opens the same online memorial.

For more on the plaques themselves, see QR codes for headstones and QR codes for gravestones.