New rules and a defined calendar for managing cemetery concessions in San Marino. The provisions introduced by Decreto Delegato 118/2026 establish timelines, procedures for informing families, and criteria for exhumations, starting with the oldest concessions.
The first deadline is set for 31 December 2026, when concessions for niches and ossuary niches granted up to 31 December 1957 will expire. Progressive deadlines are planned for later concessions.
Particular attention is being given to informing family members. “For concessions expiring in 2026, lists will be published by mid-November 2026 at the Case del Castello, the cemeteries, the Civil Registry Office and on the Public Administration website,” the statement explains. The information will also be sent to diplomatic representations and to communities of Sammarinese citizens living abroad.
A further step is planned before any exhumation takes place. “No family will have to face this procedure without being informed beforehand,” it is specified. At least 90 days before operations begin, the Administration will notify concession holders, rightful claimants or identified family members by registered letter and, where possible, by telephone as well. This will allow those concerned to communicate their wishes regarding the disposition of the remains.
Following exhumation, several options will be available: obtaining a new ossuary concession, placing the remains or ashes in another burial plot already under concession, or, in the cases provided for, renewing the ossuary concession.
The measure also clarifies what will happen if no family members are found or no choice is expressed. “The remains will not be scattered: they will be kept with dignity in the common ossuary.” It will also be possible to voluntarily and preemptively relinquish the concession, by notifying the Administration according to established procedures.
On the financial side, for concessions expiring on 31 December 2026, the State will cover the costs set out in the decree for exhumations and the disposition of remains, including, where applicable, cremation costs. Any expenses for new concessions and headstones, however, will remain the responsibility of the rightful claimants.
The decree also establishes a priority order for freeing up niches. Priority will go to those for which no alternative disposition has been requested and no rightful claimants have been identified. Next will be niches subject to voluntary relinquishment, in the order requests were submitted, and finally those for which a different placement of remains or a new concession has been requested, starting with the oldest concessions.
“The measure aims to ensure orderly and transparent management of cemeteries, with clear timelines, clear information and attention to families’ needs,” the statement emphasizes. The stated goal is “to guarantee every Sammarinese citizen a dignified burial, with certain timelines and, where possible, in their own Castello,” ensuring information and support for families throughout the various stages of the process.
