An Overview of Cremation Laws in Indiana
Unlike in some states, cremation laws in Indiana are fairly clear. To start, the law says that cremated remains can be kept by anyone who is legally entitled to own them, such as the next of kin. There are no legal restrictions when it comes to memorializing them within the many options of an Indiana cemetery, such as a cremation niche, crypt, or burial plot. The one slight exception to that is if you wish to scatter ashes in an Indiana cemetery, it must be within a designated space for such an action, such as a scattering garden. This is an increasingly popular choice, as the typical serene scenery of a cemetery scattering gardens makes for a peaceful place for reflection.
There are also no Indiana cremation laws prohibiting residents from scattering cremated remains on their own private property. Remains can also be scattered on someone else's private property, as long as the owner consents. Any uninhabited public land or waterway is also permissible, though you do need to file a form with your county recorder in order to document the final disposition of the deceased.
Besides these clear and permissive rules, there are no state laws regulating what you can do with cremated remains. There are, however, several federal laws, which we will get into next. Furthermore, some religious faiths have specific rules regarding cremation, such as how the Catholic faith prefers cremated remains be interred within a casket in a burial plot. Check with your local religious leader to clarify if any regulations are required based on faith.
Other Indiana Cremation Laws
As demonstrated above, Indiana cremation laws do not place many limitations on how you choose to scatter the remains of loved ones. Instead, federal laws end up being most applicable, as long as restrictions put in place by local entities or private land owners. If you do not have permission for a public location, first make sure the area is considered "uninhabited."
If you would like more information, you can speak to a memorial planning expert at a local Indiana cemetery. This list of Indiana-based cemeteries is a great place to get started.
References:
Keene, V. A. (2019, May 10). Burial & Cremation Laws in Indiana. Www.Nolo.Com.
https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/burial-cremation-laws-indiana.html
Learn More About Cremation
What is the Cremation Process?
Cremation is an increasingly popular form of memorialization. But many still would like to know more about the cremation process and how a body is cremated. Read on to learn about the process of cremating a body and why so many are choosing cremation these days.
The Benefits of Cremation Pre-planning
As we move through life, we learn about the different ways to protect our future. Retirement planning, health insurance, planning for a child’s education, or even saving up for the down-payment on a house are just some of the types of arrangements we make to ensure our needs and desires are met. Another type of planning that makes sense for families is cremation pre-planning.
Creative Ideas for What to Do with Cremated Remains
When it comes to honoring and commemorating those we've lost, there is truly no end of ways to do so. As cremation becomes an increasingly popular option for final arrangements, the possibilities for creativity have grown even further. There are many inventive ideas for what to do with cremated remains than simply placing them in an urn or spreading them somewhere in nature. Here are several creative things to do with cremated ashes.
