After choosing direct cremation, families often decide to keep or scatter the ashes of their loved ones in a special place. For those in Florida, comprehending the laws and guidelines related to transporting and scattering cremation ashes is crucial. This comprehensive guide aims to bring clarity to this sensitive aspect of the post-cremation journey.
Understanding Florida Laws
In Florida, cremated remains are classified as non-hazardous and do not pose any health risks. While this classification facilitates cremation ash transportation, it’s still essential to comply with local regulations. Transporting ashes within Florida doesn’t require special permits or containers; however, if you’re traveling outside the state or internationally, other jurisdictions’ rules may apply.
Traveling by Car
Many families choose to transport ashes by car, either for scattering in a meaningful location or for keeping them at home. In such cases, the remains should be placed in a sturdy, sealed urn or container.
Florida law doesn’t specify restrictions on transporting ashes by car, but it’s advisable to keep them in the vehicle’s main cabin to prevent potential damage. This can also serve as a sign of respect for the loved one you’re carrying. It is important to use appropriate containers that suit your needs, ensuring the safe and dignified transportation of your loved one’s remains.
Traveling by Air
Air travel with cremated remains requires more preparation due to airline policies and TSA regulations. Not all airlines handle cremated remains the same way. Some might allow it as a carry-on, others may require it to be checked in.
Generally, cremated remains must be in a container that can pass through an x-ray machine. Plastic or wood are commonly used materials.
Additionally, airlines may require a copy of the death certificate and the cremation certificate.
Scattering Ashes
Scattering ashes is a deeply personal ritual for many families. Florida law permits the scattering of ashes over unpopulated public land, over bodies of water, or on private property with the owner’s permission. While this gives families flexibility, it’s always important to check with local authorities or management when considering public parks or protected lands. You should also consider the environmental impact and choose locations that are not only meaningful but also respectful of the local ecosystem.
Going Home Cremations and Help Beyond Transportation
At Going Home Cremations, we understand that our role extends beyond just providing cremation services. We’re here to support families through the journey that follows, offering not only advice and guidance about transportation and scattering ashes but also emotional support and resources for coping with grief.
At Going Home Cremations, we guide families through these nuances, and provide documentation and guidance, ensuring every step taken is within the legal framework and making the process smoother for grieving families. Our team can connect you with local support groups, counselors, and community resources in Florida, ensuring you’re not alone during this difficult time.
What you need to know about Scattering Of Ashes in Florida! For many, scattering ashes at sea is a meaningful way to honor the life of a loved one who has passed away. Before you set out to scatter ashes at sea, it is important to be aware of the rules and laws that govern the practice. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you need to know before scattering ashes in the ocean. We can Help. Call for info from Going Home Cremations. Call us 24/7
The Basics of Scattering Ashes
Cremation scattering at sea is a meaningful way to say goodbye to a loved one, whether you’re looking for a final resting place for ashes or simply wishing to honor them with a special ceremony. While the process may seem simple enough, there are some basic rules and regulations you should know before you scatter ashes at sea.
The most important thing to consider when cremation scattering at sea is how far out you need to go. Depending on where you live, it’s typically legal to scatter ashes after three nautical miles away from land. It’s also important to check your local laws and regulations before heading out, as there may be additional restrictions or requirements in place.
Check Local Laws And Regulations,
When it comes to scattering ashes at sea, you should always check the local laws and regulations in your area before planning your ceremony. While many states allow cremation scattering at sea, some may have additional restrictions or requirements. For example, you are allowed to scatter ashes in Florida on public lands, with permission from the governing authority. Yo can scatter on private property with permission from the owner. However, you should still check with your local government to make sure that you are following all rules and regulations. Additionally, you should research any environmental or safety considerations that might come into play with Scattering the ashes such as public water supplies or protected food supply locations. You do not want to scatter ashes in locations where food supply is grown.
Choose The Right Location
When deciding on a location to scatter the cremation ashes at sea, it’s important to choose one that is special and meaningful to your loved one and family members. It could be a place where they spent time together, such as a favorite beach or fishing spot. Or it could be somewhere symbolic of their life, like a city skyline or rural countryside. Whatever you choose, make sure it holds special significance for all those involved in the scattering of the cremation ashes.
Hire A Boat Captain To Take Your Family On A Scattering Cruise
You can hire a private boat captain to take your family out to Scatter ashes in Florida. When hiring a captain, it’s important to ask the necessary questions about the cremation scattering process, so that you know exactly what you’re getting into. Some captains may provide extra services such as placing flowers in the water, playing music, and even providing memorial pamphlets or keepsakes for each guest. It’s also important to make sure that the captain is experienced with sea burials, and is well-versed in local laws and regulations governing the scattering of Ashes in Florida and scattering at sea. In some counties in Florida, the law requires that you obtain special permits. With the help of an experienced captain, you can ensure that you follow all the necessary guidelines and ensure a respectful and proper ceremony.
Scatter From An Aircraft
Air Scattering Ceremony Scattering Ashes Ideas
Some People Hire Airplanes to scatter ashes in Florida. It’s important to keep in mind that it is illegal to drop or disperse any kind of material from an aircraft without permission. To do this, you will need to obtain permission from the FAA and the U.S. Coast Guard. It’s best to hire a ‘pilot who has experience’ in scattering cremated remains. This can help ensure that the process is done in accordance with federal regulations and safety guidelines. In most cases, the airplane will have to be within three nautical miles of shore before the ashes are dispersed. Additionally, you may be required to provide a map of the area where the ashes will be scattered so that the Coast Guard can be notified. All of these details should be discussed with the pilot before the flight takes place. Once all of the necessary permissions are obtained and all safety protocols are followed, the scattering of the ashes can take place. It is important to remember that even if the ashes are being scattered by plane, they must still stay outside of three nautical miles of the coastline. If they don’t, they can pollute public waters. When dispersing cremation ashes at sea, it’s essential to choose a spot away from other boats and people swimming. This way, the ash particles will not affect anyone else’s time on the water. When selecting a location for scattering ashes in Florida, always remember to respect the local environment and never leave any debris behind. Respectful ash scattering ceremonies create beautiful memories for families and give them closure as they say goodbye to their loved one. Call Going Home Cremation to learn more.
Scatter in A Cemetery. But it’s Not Free
Veteran Cremation Benefits
Scatter Ashes in a Cemetery Scatter Garden or Memorial Wall – If you would like to place your loved one’s ashes in a dedicated memorial wall or garden, you should consult with the cemetery where the wall or garden is located. Going Home Cremation can help you decide on Cemetery decisions. Call us for Help now. The cemetery will provide guidance and prices on how the ashes should be placed and any additional fees for setting up a memorial. Depending on the rules of the cemetery, you may need to purchase an urn or marker for the memorial. Be sure to check with the cemetery scattering the ashes in a cemetery. You CANNOT just go in and scatter them on the grave of another loved one. You must ask the cemetery for permission and see if they charge fees to do this.
Use The Right Equipment
affordable cremation urn for ashes Natural Scatter Urn
Use a scattering urn or garden burial urn specifically designed for ashes if you plan on scattering cremation ashes at sea or burying the ashes. Urns made for cremation ashes have tight-fitting lids that will keep the ashes contained until you’re ready to scatter them. In addition, they’re typically made of biodegradable materials, making them more environmentally friendly than plastic alternatives. Most importantly, when you’re ready to scatter the ashes, simply remove the lid and tip the urn over so the ashes pour into the water. Be sure to spread the ashes evenly throughout the area where you plan to scatter them. When it comes time for the actual cremation scattering, select an area away from areas with high boat traffic and public beaches.
Be Respectful Of Other People and Wildlife
Do not trespass to scatter ashes. While it may be tempting to seek out a location that is especially meaningful for a loved one, it is important to respect the property rights of others. Be mindful of both private and public property, such as national parks and monuments, when scattering ashes at sea. Make sure you are on public land or obtain permission from the landowner if you wish to use private property. Before choosing a location, check with local authorities to find out what kind of permission needs to be granted for streams and rivers. It’s also important to take into consideration any wildlife that could potentially be affected by your actions. If possible, ensure there is enough space between yourself and others who might otherwise come into contact with the remains. After scattering the ashes, disperse them quickly so they have time to dissipate fully into the ocean before anyone else is disturbed. Call Us Now
In the past 50 years, cremation has increasingly become more accepted by most religions. Since the Bible does not ban nor promote cremation, most Christian denominations do not consider cremation to be wrong. However, the Catholic church has long held an opposing view, but has since changed their minds.
For much of its history, the Catholic Church has banned cremation for Catholics. They were to believe that man, created in the likeness of God, could not experience resurrection at the end of time unless their bodies were ‘intact’.
But along with other major changes within the church, cremation was approved for use in 1963. In 1997, the Catholic church then allowed for remains to be part of a funeral mass, with the remains to be treated with the same reverence as a body.
Catholic cemeteries are also allowing cremated remains to be buried the same as if it were a casketed body. They allow them either in the ground or in above ground niches. However, the Catholic church does not want ashes to be buried and scattered wherever, they want them to be buried into a cemetery of your choice. Going Home Cremations works diligently with Catholic cemeteries in the area to deliver the ashes for the family.
At this time, most Christian faiths believe that scattering ashes is perfectly fine. For this, Going Home Cremations has many types of urns and scattering options for your family. We have biodegradable urns for in-ground buries, and we have permanent urns for burial or to keep at home.
At Going Home Cremations, we have spent many years helping families through difficult situations. We understand that families have many questions depending on their situation or needs. After many years of speaking with families, we find these to be our most commonly asked questions:
What is the Price of Cremation?
Once you have made your decision that cremation is what you want to do, you should be able to have a cremation for your loved one between $1,200-$1,600. At Going Home Cremations, we start at $795 for the cremation itself, picking up your loved one, the casket for cremation, the urn, and a beautiful life tribute obituary. In addition, we charge $395 to acquire all the necessary paperwork to fulfill a death certificate, and acquire a permit for the medical examiners. Paperwork consumes 4 to 8 hours for any cremation service.
A lot of families do not think their loved ones need to pay for a medical examiner fee, but all United States counties require that a medical examiner reviews the death certificate that the doctor has filed. They reviewed the death certificate to make sure that they do not want to investigate the cause of death. If the medical examiner thinks that there was a suspicious death, they will not approve the cremation and require us to return the body to them so they can perform an autopsy or an investigation. There will be additional fees to acquire death certificates. Going Home Cremation charges $18 per death certificate. The family is also allowed to go to the health department to buy the death certificates directly. If you go in yourself, you can usually do everything for about $10 each.
How Long Will the Cremation Process Take?
Cremation services take approximately two weeks to complete. Between taking your loved one into our care, acquiring all the necessary paperwork from the family, filing for death certificates, having the doctor approve, getting the death certificate to the medical examiner for approval, and then the cremation itself; it will take about two weeks before the ashes are ready to be picked up.
Do I Have to Buy an Urn?
We provide a free basic black polystyrene urn, but if you would like to purchase an urn, Going Home Cremations will give you $100 credit towards any purchase of a full-size cremation urn on our website. The average price of an urn is anywhere between $280-$500. We also have many urns available for $200, so with the $100 credit, you would only look to spend about $100!
What Should I Do With the Ashes?
You have many choices when it comes to what to do with the ashes. Many families choose to scatter the ashes in the Gulf of Mexico. At Going Home Cremations, we have an option to scatter in the Gulf for $295. This cremation is an unattended service, and we will scatter the ashes of between 4 to 6 family members per boat trip.
Another option for a family is to charter a boat for 3 to 4 hours. you will go out 3 miles with the captain to scatter the ashes and then come back. Another option is to inurn the ashes in a cemetery. Or you can scatter the ashes in your favorite park or vacation spot, but you should make sure to check with local permit requirements before doing that.
At Going Home Cremation Services, we understand that families have a lot of questions. Please feel free to call us if you have any questions regarding the process and what to do for your loved ones. We are here for you!
There’s an old saying, ‘You get what you pay for!’ Well, that’s true in all aspects of life. There are cremation service companies in the United States that advertise cheap cremation: $695 complete! If you really investigate, there are companies that are cremating your loved ones in storage facilities or storage units. They refrigerate your loved on and keep the bodies in a 12×14″ storage unit with a refrigeration box.
Is that really where you want your loved one to be while they await their final send off?
Conversely, some cremations are done at local funeral homes. These cremations usually run anywhere from $3000 to $4000. These tend to be higher price because of everything that comes with, even if you or your loved ones don’t need everything.
There are more conservative cremation services that will do an honorable cremation anywhere between $1000-$2000. This is the spot you want to be in, and the companies you want to seek out. They usually work out of nicer facilities, have numerous staff members, and do an honorable and dignified cremation for your family.
The Immediate Cremation Service can be arranged as an immediate disposition of the body, but is most times followed by a memorial service at the church, funeral home, or other location. A Memorial Service is one where there is no present body. Have either of these types of service or ceremony is a key ingredient to a healthy recovery after loss due to death. A Direct Cremation refers to a cremation being provided, while limiting funeral services to the removal and transportation of the deceased to our care.
Cremation allows families many choices for how they can memorialize a loved one. Some families choose to keep the cremated remains with them at home, or to scatter the remains over land or water. Going Home Cremations has many urns and keepsakes for you to choose from for cremated remains.
At Going Home Cremations, we are lower cost than about 80% of the funeral home cremation providers out there. We have all five star reviews and a very good reputation. We go above and beyond to help your family through this very difficult time. We are not just an alternative to high-priced cremations that funeral homes provide, but we’re an alternative to the very cheap ‘storage unit’ crematories. Feel free to call Going Home Cremations so we can answer any questions you may have, and help you for whatever comes next.
Looking urns for ashes to honor your lost loved ones can be an overwhelming experience. This is especially true if your loss is recent. Most families welcome the idea of cremation but have serious doubts about an urn for ashes. Purchasing an urn is not a necessity; it’s more of a choice you can make according to your wishes regarding handling the remains of a loved one.
Why Families Prefer an Urn for Ashes
With the steep rise in the popularity of cremation, the use of urns started gaining more traction than traditional burial caskets. Here are a few reasons why there is an increased demand for urns.
Urns are affordable
The primary advantage of using urns is their low cost. Cremating and using an urn to store the remains of a deceased loved one is considerably less expensive than a traditional burial, which has extra charges for a casket, a headstone, burial plot, and cemetery fees. Urns can cost as low as $50 depending on their materials, in stark contrast to the cost of a casket at thousands of dollars. This also helps reduce the cost of memorial services.
Urns are Portable
Urns can help the remains of your loved ones stay portable. Since these urns are usually the size of a small box, it makes carrying them more manageable. Family members use keepsake urns for ashes to decorate their homes as a tribute to their departed loved ones. Finding unique designs that fit into the décor of your home is easy, as you can buy urns online. An added benefit is that you can place the urn in a columbarium so that any visitors or relatives can visit it whenever they want to. Transporting an urn while traveling in a plane is also easier than transporting your deceased loved one in a casket, with less paperwork and significantly less cost.
Urns for ashes provide versatility
Urns offer you added flexibility with the wide variety of choices on offer. Urns can be made from virtually every material; from minimalistic ceramic urns to gold-plated all-out urns, they offer considerable customization. The designs on the urns can be tailor-made in remembrance of your deceased loved one.
Urns are an eco-friendly option
Burying a loved one can potentially hurt the environment of the burial site. The chemicals used in embalming a body can leak into the local water supply, causing widespread health issues. Furthermore, using concrete vaults leaves a significant carbon footprint and can be an environmental hazard. Using wooden caskets is also one of the most unsustainable decisions, as the caskets are primarily made from mahogany trees. On the contrary, urns have minimal impact on the environment and give you the choice of scattering the ashes of your loved ones out on the sea or a location of some significance.
Urns give you flexibility with time
Using an urn instead of a traditional burial can effectively remove any time constraints imposed to keep the body from decomposing. By cremating your deceased loved ones, you can plan a memorial service at your convenience once the body has been cremated and the ashes are put in an urn. It helps families process their loss and grief and prevents them from rushing things.
Where to Buy Urns for Ashes?
With the advent of the digital world, you can now buy urns online. The best place to buy cremation urns for ashes is a funeral home or a cremation home. However, they also provide their services online, where you can purchase urns. Most cremation homes offer a wide variety of urns to choose from.
Cardboard urns
These urns are perfect for scattering ashes of your loved ones on a water body as they slowly disintegrate when they come in contact with water.
Salt urns
Urns made out of salt are an excellent choice if you wish to scatter the remains of your dearly departed at sea. They instantly melt when they come in contact with water, allowing you to scatter their ashes offshore peacefully. However, these urns are not ideal for storage, as they can disintegrate when they come in contact with moisture.
Wooden urns
Urns made of wood from trees like oak, cherry, pine, and hardwood offer engraving options. They can be tailor-made according to your preferences. Furthermore, you can also get custom plaques for the urns, and they are ideal to be a part of the décor at your home.
Polystyrene urns
These urns are explicitly meant to be buried in the ground. They have a glossy finish that closely resembles a marble surface. They are highly durable, thanks to their double-layered construction.
Metal urns
These metal urns closely resemble vases. Since it’s made of sturdy material, it can be custom engraved with designs ranging from floral prints to panoramic views.
Final Words
Using an urn for ashes is the best choice that allows your family to grieve in their own time while cutting down on costs. The low carbon footprint it offers is just another bonus of using urns. Most cremation service providers offer a wide range of urns, and since you can buy urns online, it becomes less of a hassle.
With the option of cremation, many people choose to scatter the ashes afterward. The important thing is to be aware of the rules and regulations for scattering the ashes in your state. In Florida where cremation is growing in popularity and scattering ashes is widely chosen, there are some regulations issued by the state and the cities that you need to follow.
Rules and Regulations for Scattering The Ashes In Florida
There are no strict rules and regulations in the state of Florida as scattering the cremation remains poses no health risks and does not cause any infection. However, cities and counties and the authorities where you scatter the ashes may have their own rules.
Some common places for scattering ashes are the sea, ocean, public land including National Parks, scattering gardens, and federal land or private property. Our suggestion is to do a quick search and check with any local authority before scattering. In most cases, scattering on waterways is not allowed.
Scattering at Sea/Ocean
This is a popular option for scattering in Florida where there is a beautiful coastline and beaches. It is important to keep in mind that:
You need to notify the US EPA (The United States Environmental Protection Agency) within 30 days of scattering the ashes on their website.
It is required by the Federal Clean Water Act that the ashes are scattered at least 3 nautical miles from the shore.
Biodegradable urns should be used. Otherwise, you must keep and dispose of your urn after the ceremony.
As a result, prior preparation is needed and families should look for boat service at the port where they are going to scatter.
Scattering Ashes in Other Places Such as Federal Land, Public Land, Scattering Gardens, and Private Land
For these places, our suggestion is to check with the property owner of the places you are going to scatter or with the local authorities of the city. In some public areas, scattering is not allowed and in others, it is acceptable with local permission. In the case of scattering gardens such as cemeteries and memorial gardens, information is usually available on their website.
Scattering By Air
Scattering by air is not prohibited in Florida. Families can scatter the ash by air but keep the urn as it can hurt someone on the ground when it drops.
Scattering Urns
To make it easy for the memorial ceremony, we recommend you select biodegradable urns for scattering at sea and other urns with a top opening design for other options of scattering.
In addition, many people decide to scatter only a portion of the ashes and keep the remains at home or in a columbarium. In this case, they could purchase small-sized urns or a keepsake.
The process of cremation and scattering can be complex for most families as there are so many rules and regulations specific to each type of scattering ceremony. Here at Going Home Cremations, with over 2 decades of cremation and scattering experiences in Florida, we are confident that we can take care of your loved one from A-Z, from cremations, scattering, and any other cremation services.
