Whether cremated remains need to be kept in a container or can be scattered depends on the laws and regulations that apply. Generally, ashes do need to be placed in some type of enclosed container for transport and storage, but can often be scattered without a container during the act of disposition. The specifics vary based on location and circumstance.
Why Ashes are Typically Stored in a Container
There are several reasons why cremated remains are usually placed in an urn or other type of enclosed container:
- Containers protect the integrity of the ashes – Without an urn or bag, ashes could easily be spilled or scattered accidentally before the intended time.
- Containers make transport and handling simpler – Having the ashes in a single vessel facilitates moving them from the crematorium to the funeral home and finally to their resting place without loss.
- Containers show respect for the deceased – Placing ashes in an urn treats them with dignity and honors the dead, rather than leaving them in a temporary plastic bag.
- Containers prevent confusion of remains – If the ashes are not in an identified container, they could potentially get mixed up with others during transport or handling.
- Containers facilitate storage – An urn allows loved ones to keep the cremains in a safe spot until they are ready for final disposition.
For these practical and symbolic reasons, professional standards require ashes to be placed and handled respectfully in an enclosed receptacle. Typically, crematoriums will put the cremains in a simple temporary plastic container or bag for transport back to the funeral home. Then the ashes are transferred into the selected urn chosen by the family before final disposition.
Regulations on Containers for Ashes
In addition to professional standards, there are often legal regulations regarding the treatment of cremated remains. Laws can dictate the use of containers:
- Some states require ashes to be stored and transported from the crematorium in a leak-proof and secure container.
- Many states require a permit for transport and disposition of ashes, which identifies the receptacle they are stored in.
- TSA regulations require ashes to be in a container for air travel.
- Scatterings at certain public sites may require ashes to be packaged until the actual dispersal.
- Some states require all portions of divided ashes to be stored in identified containers.
Overall, the trend is for lawmakers to mandate respectful treatment of cremains, including placement in proper containers. Families should research and follow all applicable regulations when handling ashes.
Are Containers Required for Scattering?
While ashes generally need to be stored and transported in an urn or other vessel, the container may not be required at the moment of final disposition.
- Many locations allow scatterings directly from the original plastic bag or transport container.
- Some families choose to pour the ashes from the urn into the scattering area without any container.
- There is no public health reason ashes cannot be scattered loosely as long as done legally and respectfully.
- However, some find it easier to scatter ashes by shaking them out of holes in the bottom of special scatter urns.
So while ashes typically start and end their journey in a container, regulations often do not specify that the cremains must be in an urn or bag when scattered. It is a personal choice for families to make when planning the scattering.
Choosing an Urn or Container
When selecting an urn or other container for ashes, families should consider:
- Material – Common types include bronze, wood, marble, ceramic, glass, steel, and biodegradable.
- Size – Make sure it is large enough to accommodate the remains.
- Style – Consider a design appropriate for placement, from decorative to functional.
- Engraving – Many urns can be personalized with text or images.
- Special features – Some have attached pendants, thumbprint impressions, or lockable lids.
- Price – Costs range from under $100 to over $1000.
The table below compares some pros and cons of common cremation urn materials:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Beautiful finish; very durable | Expensive; very heavy |
| Ceramic | Attractive; affordable; variety of styles | Not very durable; prone to cracking |
| Glass | Allows visibility of contents; lightweight | Fragile; not good for engraving |
| Wood | Warm, natural material; easily engraved | Not waterproof; may warp or rot over time |
Families should choose a container that protects the ashes while honoring the deceased. Urns can then hold the cremains until final disposition.
Permanent Versus Temporary Storage
Another consideration is whether the remains will be kept in the container permanently or temporarily:
- Some urns are designed for permanent placement in a columbarium niche or burial plot.
- Other families choose temporary storage until ashes are scattered or divided.
- Simple plastic containers allow low-cost temporary storage.
- Scattering urns make for easy dispersal of ashes.
- A decorative urn might hold ashes for years before being scattered.
The intended duration of storage can help guide the selection of an appropriate ashes container.
Dividing Cremation Ashes
When cremated remains will be divided between family members or multiple disposition sites, each portion should be in its own identified container:
- Use only a professional, authorized division service to split ashes.
- Splitting should be done carefully and respectfully.
- Weighing and exact measurement ensure accurate division.
- All state and TSA regulations regarding containers apply to each portion.
- It is recommended each occupant be labeled with a permanent marker or engraving.
Proper division and identification allows family and friends to confidently receive their own share of the ashes.
Conclusion
In summary, cremated remains generally require placement in an urn or other enclosed receptacle. This allows for clean and respectful handling before final disposition. While scattering may legally be done directly from a bag or container, ashes still initially need storage in a vessel. With the wide variety of urn styles and materials, families can choose one that safely holds the ashes while honoring the deceased. Thoughtful selection and use of a container enables loved ones to keep the cremains in a dignified manner until scattering or placement in a permanent memorial.