Laws in Massachusetts for Spreading Ashes The state laws mandate that ashes can be scattered anywhere that it isn’t illegal to do so. This means that the law simply requires people to conform with federal laws or state property laws.
Is it OK to spread someone’s ashes?
People are permitted to scatter in California where no local prohibition exists and with written permission of the governing agency or property owner (if it’s not property you own). In addition, the ashes, once scattered, must not be distinguishable to the public.
Is it legal to spread or bury ones ashes close to own property?
You are free to scatter ashes anywhere on your own private property, but if someone else owns the land, you need to ask permission first. Either written or verbal permission is fine, but it may be a good idea to have a record of the agreement. If the property owner says no, find another location.
Can you scatter a person’s ashes anywhere?
Can you scatter ashes anywhere? The answer is yes, but there are guidelines to follow wherever you choose. The most common place for ashes to be scattered is at a family grave. But, there’s no reason why you can’t pick a different location of sentimental value.
What are the laws around spreading ashes?
While you should always request permission before scattering ashes on private property, there are no laws about where or how ashes should be scattered on public property. The one exception to this is if one plans on scattering ashes in the ocean.
Is it OK to split cremated ashes?
Because the cremated remains (a.k.a, “ashes”) are a coarse, dusty material, just like sand or gravel they can be divided after cremation. This means that you are not limited to just one disposition option. Instead, you can divide the remains and: Keep the larger portion at home and scatter some at a favorite location.
Do human ashes float or sink?
Loved ones may place flowers, petals or floating candles into the water alongside the remains as a tribute. These will float on top of the water while the ashes sink below the surface.
What does the Bible say about scattering ashes?
Ash Scattering References in the Bible
In the Bible, there are no passages that prohibit or encourage cremation and scattering of ashes. However, many Christian sects believe a burial funeral aligns with best end-of-life practices. As a result, some Christian clerics may discourage cremation or prohibit it entirely.
Do you need permission to scatter ashes on a beach?
There are no legal requirements except for the fact that you need permission before spreading cremated remains on to a privately-owned stretch of waters. You don’t need a license to spread ashes in tidal coastal waters or upon a beach.
What to do when spreading someone’s ashes?
By contrast, California’s laws state that ashes may only be disposed of by scattering in a cemetery scattering garden, or scattering where there is no local prohibition and with written permission of the property owner or governing agency.
What happens to human ashes in water?
Are Human Ashes Bad for the Ocean? Human ashes do not dissolve in the ocean’s waters. However, being a coarse, gritty, sand-like substance, the ashes will scatter throughout the ocean with no negative effects. The EPA allows for cremated remains to be spread in the sea.
Is there energy in cremated ashes?
It can remain for a long time. Because of this, their energy can still be felt by the living. In truth, the dead never leave us but are in another dimension of existence. There’s nothing wrong with keeping a loved one’s ashes in the house.
What does it mean when ashes are heavy after cremation?
Ashes are heavier than some people expect
But human ashes aren’t the same type of ash – they’re made of bone. Bones are made of various acids, minerals, and salts, which means they’re heavier than many people expect.
Where can I scatter ashes near me?
Where can you scatter ashes?
- In a churchyard, cemetery or natural burial ground.
- Over the sea, a river or body of water.
- In a national park or public space.
- On private land (back garden, sports ground or private farmland)
What to do with urn after scattering ashes?
Two of the most common answers for what to do with ashes after cremation is to place them in an urn, and then bury the urn in a cemetery or place it in a columbarium or mausoleum. A columbarium is a building with small niches, openings designed to hold urns.
How do you scatter ashes at the beach?
You can scatter the ashes over water as you would when casting or scattering ashes over land, by simply tossing the ashes over the water. If you’re thinking about doing this, be aware of the direction of the wind; make sure that the wind is blowing away from the boat and anyone on the boat.
Do human ashes smell?
Most people who keep the ashes of a departed human or pet loved one at home say they detect no odor from the cremains. A few respondents indicated a very slight metallic odor or a very slight scent of incense. Your experience of keeping cremains at home may vary, depending on the type of container you choose.
Is it disrespectful to open an urn?
As a general rule, it is disrespectful to open an urn contrary to the decedent’s wishes or beliefs, or for your own curiosity or benefit. You can be confident that you are treating your loved one with proper respect if you are opening the urn to follow their instructions (for scattering, etc) or to honor their memory.
Can you mix husband and wife Ashes?
Commingled: If the couple requested their ashes to be commingled, or if the family decided that commingling was the best expression of the two people’s love, then the ashes can be mixed together before in companion urns for permanent storage.
Do you scatter ashes with your hands?
Human ashes can get stuck to your skin quite easily, so it’s best to avoid touching them as much as possible. If you need to pour the ashes into a scattering tube or urn, it’s worth wearing gloves and using a spoon to scoop them out.
Why are human ashes different color?
In short, it’s because the temperature of a cremation retort depends on the size of the person inside. A larger individual with a higher body-to-bone ratio will often have darker ashes than a thin individual with dense bones.