HDB void decks (the open ground floor of public housing blocks) are commonly used as a venue for funeral wakes in Singapore. This uniquely Singaporean tradition offers families an affordable and community-oriented option. This guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a void deck funeral permit, the rules and regulations, and what to expect.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a void deck funeral permit, confirm that you meet these requirements:
- Residency: You must be a resident of the precinct where the void deck is located. Non-residents are generally not eligible to book.
- Age: The applicant must be at least 21 years old.
- Documentation: You must present your NRIC and the Death Certificate when registering.
Application Process
Step 1: Contact Your Town Council
Find the relevant Town Council for your HDB estate. You can do this through the MyLegacy@LifeSG portal or the Town Council website.
There are several ways to reach your Town Council:
- Phone call (most common for urgent bereavement bookings)
- Online application via the Town Council website
- LifeSG app
Step 2: Book Before Setup
This is a critical step: booking must be made before any setup begins. Setting up without prior approval can lead to unauthorised occupation and potential conflicts.
- For planned situations (e.g., pre-planned funerals): Apply 7-14 days ahead
- For urgent bereavement: Contact the Town Council directly for expedited arrangements. Most Town Councils understand the urgency and process these quickly.
Step 3: Receive Written Approval
The Town Council issues written approval with conditions of use, including:
- Permitted hours for activities
- Sound limits
- Cleanliness obligations
Step 4: Coordinate Setup
Work with your funeral director for all setup logistics:
- Tentage and canopy
- Tables and chairs
- Altar and memorial table setup
- Lighting and electrical connections
- Cooling fans
- Sound system (within noise limits)
- Kitchen/catering area
- Casket stand
- Signage and floral arrangements
If power and water points at the void deck are needed, a separate permit may be required from the Town Council.
Fees and Charges
One of the main advantages of a void deck funeral is the cost.
| Item | Cost | |---|---| | Void deck usage fee | Waived for funeral wakes at most Town Councils | | Electricity and water | Charged by Town Council (varies) |
Some Town Councils waive utility fees entirely, including Sembawang, Holland-Bukit Panjang, and Marsiling-Yew Tee. While the usage fee is generally waived, utility charges (electricity and water) apply at most Town Councils.
Rules and Regulations
Noise Restrictions
Noise management is one of the most important regulations for void deck funerals:
- Activities creating noise nuisance cannot be carried out after 10:30 PM
- Between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM, police can be called for noise complaints (hotline: 1800-255-0000)
- Buddhist/Taoist chanting, music systems, and other audio must respect the noise curfew
- This is a common source of friction with neighbours, so proactive communication is recommended
Duration
- Funeral wakes typically last 3 to 7 days
- If the wake exceeds 7 days from the date of death, written permission from NEA is required
- Most families complete the wake within the 7-day window
Setup Requirements
- Light-emitting installations and inflatables require adherence to additional Town Council guidelines
- Tentage must not obstruct emergency access or walkways
- Different faiths have specific setup needs:
- Buddhist: Yellow tentage, joss sticks, designated monk area
- Taoist: Paper offering area, ceremonial space for priests
- Christian: Simple setup with cross or religious imagery
- Freethinker: Flexible setup with personal touches
- Joss paper burning (if applicable) must use designated incinerators
Cleanliness
- The family and/or funeral director are responsible for full cleanup after the wake
- The void deck must be returned to its original condition
- A signed undertaking to follow all rules and regulations is required with each booking
Access and Safety
- The setup must not block access to lifts, staircases, or letter boxes
- Parking of hearse and funeral vehicles must be coordinated
- The Town Council may impose additional site-specific conditions
What Funeral Directors Typically Handle
Most funeral directors will manage the entire void deck setup on your behalf, including:
- Tentage/canopy (yellow for Buddhist/Taoist, white/neutral for others)
- Tables and chairs for visitors and meals
- Altar or memorial table setup
- Lighting and electrical connections
- Cooling fans for comfort
- Sound system (within noise limits)
- Kitchen/catering area
- Casket stand
- Signage and floral arrangements
- Joss paper burning area with designated incinerators (if applicable)
This allows the family to focus on grieving and receiving visitors rather than managing logistics.
Communicating With Neighbours
Void deck funerals take place in a shared community space, so good communication with neighbours is essential for a smooth and respectful wake.
Before the Wake
- Inform neighbours personally: Visit or leave a polite note at the doors of neighbouring units, especially those directly above the void deck. Let them know the expected dates and duration of the wake.
- Acknowledge the inconvenience: A simple, sincere acknowledgement goes a long way. Most neighbours will be understanding and supportive.
- Share your contact details: Provide a phone number (yours or your funeral director's) so neighbours can reach you if they have concerns during the wake.
During the Wake
- Strictly observe the 10:30 PM noise curfew: This is the most common source of complaints. Ensure all chanting, music, and conversation volumes are reduced well before the curfew.
- Manage smoke and odour: If joss paper burning or incense is part of the ceremonies, ensure it is contained to designated areas and minimised where possible.
- Keep walkways clear: Residents still need to pass through the void deck to access lifts and staircases. Ensure the setup does not block their path.
After the Wake
- Thank your neighbours: A brief note or verbal thanks to nearby residents for their understanding is a thoughtful gesture that maintains goodwill in the community.
Void Deck vs Funeral Parlour
When deciding between a void deck and a funeral parlour, consider these factors:
| Factor | Void Deck | Funeral Parlour | |---|---|---| | Cost | Under $100 (utilities) | $500 - $1,800/day | | Climate | Open-air, can be hot | Air-conditioned | | Privacy | Public space, residents pass by | Private, enclosed | | Accessibility | Near home, familiar to community | May require travel | | Setup | Requires tentage, furniture | Fully equipped | | Noise restrictions | 10:30 PM curfew | More flexible | | Community | Neighbours can easily visit | Visitors must travel | | Parking | Public HDB parking | Dedicated parking at some |
The void deck is ideal for families who want an affordable option close to home with easy access for the community. A funeral parlour is better suited for families seeking privacy, climate control, and a fully equipped facility.
For more on funeral costs and venue options, see our guide to funeral costs in Singapore.
Tips for a Smooth Void Deck Funeral
Before the Wake
- Book the void deck with the Town Council as early as possible
- Inform your immediate neighbours about the wake dates, duration, and any potential noise
- Confirm all setup logistics with your funeral director
- Ensure your funeral director has arranged for tentage, electrical connections, and water access
During the Wake
- Respect the 10:30 PM noise curfew strictly
- Keep the area clean and tidy throughout the wake
- Ensure walkways and access points remain clear
- Coordinate hearse and vehicle parking to minimise disruption
After the Wake
- Complete full cleanup promptly
- Remove all tentage, furniture, and decorations
- Return the void deck to its original condition
- Dispose of all waste properly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the void deck free to use for funerals?
The usage fee is waived at most Town Councils. However, utility charges (electricity and water) typically apply. Some Town Councils waive utility fees as well.
Can non-residents book a void deck for a funeral?
Generally, no. You must be a resident of the precinct where the void deck is located. The booking is tied to the deceased's or the next-of-kin's address.
What time must funeral activities stop?
Noisy activities must cease by 10:30 PM. Between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM, any noise nuisance can result in a police complaint.
Who handles the void deck cleanup?
The family and/or their funeral director are responsible for full cleanup. The void deck must be returned to its original condition after the wake ends.
Can I have a funeral at any void deck?
No. You can only use designated void decks within your estate, subject to availability and Town Council approval. First come, first served applies.
What if another event is already booked at my void deck?
Void deck bookings operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If the space is already booked, your Town Council may suggest an alternative location within the estate. Always book before starting any setup.
Can I have a Taoist funeral with paper offerings at a void deck?
Yes, but joss paper burning must be done using designated incinerators to manage smoke and ash. Your funeral director will typically arrange this. Follow the Taoist Federation Singapore's recommendation to burn only 3-4 pieces at a time for complete combustion.
What if it rains during the void deck funeral?
Void deck funerals are held under the shelter of the HDB block's ground floor, which provides basic cover from rain. Additionally, tentage and canopy setups extend the sheltered area for visitors. However, heavy rain with strong winds can affect the open sides of the setup. Discuss contingency arrangements with your funeral director, who may reinforce the tentage or adjust the layout to provide better protection.
How do I find my Town Council's contact details?
You can find your Town Council through the HDB website by entering your block address, or through the MyLegacy@LifeSG portal which provides a direct link to the relevant Town Council for funeral-related bookings. Your funeral director will also be able to assist with identifying and contacting the correct Town Council.