China bans storage of funeral urns in unoccupied apartments

Tuesday 31 March 2026 - 09:00

Chinese authorities have introduced new regulations prohibiting the storage of funeral urns in unoccupied residential apartments, a practice that had emerged in response to rising funeral costs.

The policy, approved by the State Council, specifies that human remains must be kept only in officially designated locations such as public cemeteries. The measure aims to regulate a growing trend in which individuals used vacant apartments to store ashes as a more affordable alternative to traditional burial options.

In recent years, funeral expenses in China have increased significantly, placing a financial burden on many families. At the same time, the downturn in the real estate market has led to an increase in unused housing, contributing to the spread of so-called “ash apartments.”

Authorities have also announced additional measures to improve transparency in funeral service pricing and to prevent fraudulent practices. Officials say the reforms are intended to ease financial pressure on citizens while ensuring that funeral practices comply with national standards.