Spreading the ashes of a loved one is an important moment for many families. It can be a pivotal part of honoring the loved one\'s wishes and of working through the mourning process. There are many ways and different requests regarding the spreading of ashes, so it’s often helpful to discuss your options with a licensed funeral Reception director from your chosen funeral home in Calgary.
The simple answer though is, no, it is not illegal to spread ashes in Calgary. The laws surrounding the releasing of cremated remains are actually governed by the province of Alberta and provided you have followed the correct rules (depending on whether you are spreading the ashes on private or public property), you are allowed to proceed.
If you are planning to spread your loved one’s ashes on private property, you must have the permission of the property owner. For public or Crown-owned land, spreading ashes on land or water is not prohibited, provided you have considered how this may affect the environment and people who use the area. You are asked to avoid developed and high traffic areas, frequently used water areas, water treatment facilities, and leaving the remains in a high concentration in a single location. You are also not able to leave behind a marker of any kind due to the unintended distribution of invasive objects or species into the environment.
There are many options you can consider when determining the best way to scatter your loved one\'s ashes. Your funeral home in Calgary will be able to assist you in making the best decision and also with making the necessary arrangements if needed.
Options include:
Buying a compartment (niche) in a cemetery columbarium
Buying a cemetery plot for the burial of cremated remains
Scattering cremated remains in a cemetery with the cemetery operator’s approval
Scattering cremated remains on private land with the landowner’s permission
Scattering cremated remains on unoccupied, provincial government-owned Crown land or water (including provincial parks) with no need for government consent
After discussing your options with the funeral home in Calgary that you are working with, you can make the right choice for you and your family. Regardless of where you decide to rest the remains of your loved one, you can rest assured that with the right consideration and permission (for private lands), you have the ability to proceed with what is best for you. You can honor the request of your loved one, or the choices of their friends and family. Whatever you feel is the most respectful and appropriate way of releasing your loved one\'s ashes is typically accepted by the city of Calgary provided it falls within the guidelines from the province.
Spreading ashes in Calgary is not illegal. It can be done and any arrangements you require can be made by your Calgary funeral home. Check with them on your plans and they can guide you, as well as helping to facilitate a ceremony, where applicable.
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