Orkney Islands Council governs the Orkney archipelago – approximately 70 islands north of the Scottish mainland, with a population centred on Kirkwall and Stromness. Fees apply for the 2026–27 financial year.
Lair purchase
| Lair type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Double depth interment lair | £1,100 |
| Single depth interment lair | £750 |
Burial and interment fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Coffin grave excavation | £853 |
| Casket grave excavation (cremated remains) | £248 |
| Grave excavation for an infant or child aged 17 and under | Free |
A 25% supplementary charge applies for services requested outside normal hours or at weekends. Memorial permit to erect a memorial in an OIC-managed burial ground: £67.50.
Fees verified 2026-08-07, fee year 2026–27. Source: Orkney Islands Council – burial services.
About Orkney Islands burial grounds
Orkney Islands Council maintains burial grounds across the main island of Mainland and several inhabited islands. From 1 March 2026, burial rights are granted for a 25-year term under the Burial and Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016 (sections 14 and 16), renewable in further 10-year blocks on application. This does not apply retrospectively to lairs bought before that date. Contact the Kirkwall Registration Office on 01856 886333 for burial enquiries.