Funeral at a Void Deck in Singapore: Setup and What to Expect

For a wake at a Town Council-managed void deck, get a permit from the relevant council. Ask the council which spaces and dates are available and confirm its requirements and charges.

Ask for the confirmed venue and dates before arranging the setup. Ang Brothers can help you prepare for the application and plan the wake around the space the council approves.

Why families choose a void deck wake

An HDB void deck may offer covered space close to relatives and neighbours. Check the route from the drop-off point and the space available for seating, walkways and any tentage.

A void deck can be considered for a Buddhist funeral, a Taoist funeral, a Christian service or a non-religious wake. Check the requirements of the family, officiant and venue before booking.

How booking a void deck works

For a wake at a Town Council-managed void deck, hall or pavilion, NEA says to obtain a Town Council permit. Check with the council that manages the proposed venue.

Applying through the Town Council

• Check the relevant Town Council’s booking process. LifeSG lists online booking for eligible relatives where that option is offered.
• Have the block, proposed dates and applicant’s identification ready. Check which document the council needs. If the doctor issued a Confirmation of Death, ICA says Town Councils accept it for funeral applications.
• Confirm the approved space, the booking period and any conditions before ordering the setup.

Permit, fees and availability

• Ask about the permit, any venue or utility charges, and the council’s requirements for the space.
• Ask which charges are payable to the council and which items are included in your funeral director’s quotation.
• Availability can be tight if another wake or event is already booked at the same void deck, in which case a nearby space or an alternative venue may be needed.

We can help you prepare the venue details and coordinate the setup as part of arranging a funeral. Confirm who must submit the booking with the Town Council.

What the setup involves

The setup depends on the approved area, the family’s arrangements and what the chosen package includes.

Tentage, tables and seating

• Tentage and canopies to extend cover beyond the void deck if more space is needed.
• Tables and chairs for guests, laid out so relatives can sit, share meals and keep vigil.
• A clear walkway and a reception area near the entrance.

The altar and religious backdrop

• An altar with the casket, the portrait of the departed, offerings, candles and incense as the faith requires.
• A backdrop and decor suited to the religion, whether Buddhist, Taoist, Christian or free thinking.
• Space for monks, priests or clergy to conduct prayers and rites.

Lighting, fans and comfort

• Proper lighting for evening visits, since wakes often run late into the night.
• Standing fans to keep the open air area comfortable in Singapore’s heat.
• A drinks and refreshment corner for guests who come to pay respects.

How long a wake usually runs

Agree the dates with the funeral director and Town Council. If the wake continues more than seven days after death, get prior written permission from NEA.

The daily flow

• Mornings are usually quieter, a time for close family and prayers.
• Evenings are busier, when relatives, friends, colleagues and neighbours visit after work.
• Prayers and rites are held at set times depending on the faith.
• The final day includes the encoffining rites, the sending off and the journey to the crematorium or burial ground.

Practical things families ask about

Weather, noise and neighbours

Ask what covered space is available and which weather protection the council allows. Keep shared access clear and follow the permit conditions on setup, noise and hours.

Parking and catering

• Check nearby parking for guests. If you need to use adjacent HDB surface parking lots as part of the wake setup, apply separately to HDB.
• If you want refreshments or meals, check what your chosen package covers and ask for a separate quote where needed.

What the funeral director can arrange

Ang Brothers can help you work through the booking and setup choices. Confirm the final scope in an itemised quote.

• We can explain the application and help you prepare the details for the Town Council.
• We deliver and set up the tentage, tables, chairs, altar, lighting and fans.
• We coordinate prayers, rites, casket, transport and the crematorium or cemetery.
• We are contactable at any hour, day or night, throughout the wake.

Our funeral packages are built around this, and if you are weighing your options it helps to understand how much a funeral costs before you decide.

Alternatives to a void deck

A void deck is not the only choice. Some families prefer a funeral parlour, which offers an indoor, air conditioned hall with privacy and its own facilities. Others hold the wake at home, in a landed house or a larger flat, when the space allows. Each option has its own comfort, cost and character, and we are happy to talk you through the trade offs so the setting feels right for your family.

Frequently asked questions

If you are facing a loss or simply want to plan ahead, our team is here to help with warmth and no obligation. Call or WhatsApp Ang Brothers any hour on 9871 8388, or reach our team and we will guide you through every step.