Update: MJ Funeral Not At Neverland

Michael Jackson’s family has been forced to scrap plans to bury the King of Pop at his famous Neverland Ranch – having not gotten the required permits in time.

Fans have already started to flock to the California ranch after reports a public viewing would be held there later this week.

But Neverland has now been ruled out as the final resting place for Jackson, after the investment company that bought the ranch last year failed to get the required residential exemption needed for a burial on private property.

A spokesman for Colony Capital confirmed that the company applied for the exemption, but said: “They couldn’t get it in time.”

Jackson’s funeral and burial now look likely to take place in Los Angeles.

The Jackson family said in a statement on Wednesday: “Contrary to previous news reports, the Jackson family is officially stating that there will be no public or private viewing at Neverland. “Plans are under way regarding a public memorial for Michael Jackson, and we will announce those plans shortly.”

A private memorial service for family and friends is still rumored to be planned for Neverland, possibly after Jackson’s funeral.

—Iain Burchell, Splash News