Most people who go for an option of cremating the body of their loved one do not know what to do with the ashes. While some families like to keep it inside an urn and take it at home, some also scatter the ashes in a place where they find it meaningful and memorable. So to answer the question if ashes can be buried in the same grave, yes people can actually have that option. Private cemeteries offer an option to the family where they can purchase a lot to bury the ashes in the same grave. But before picking that option, one has to consider many factors. Here are some of the factors:
- Do you belong to a religious denomination or group wherein they set some specific rules for the burial of the ashes in the grave? There are other religious organizations that prohibit the cremation of a dead body. But you can always ask from your religious leader if it is okay to cremate the body and bury it in a grave. In Islam and Judaism for example, they allow for the cremation of a dead body but burial is required.
- If you want your other family members will be able to locate the place where you want to bury the ashes.
- Do you want to bury the ashes or include the urn?
- Will you be able to afford to purchase a lot where you can bury the remains of your loved one?
- Is the location where you are going to bury the ashes of your loved one strategic and accessible to you and to your other family members?
Before making a decision, it pays to know the option that you are choosing in your mind. Make sure to consider other factors such as the cost and the location. However, there are other options that you can have if you’re still not quite sure what to do with the ashes. Here are some of them:
- Burying it in a cemetery
One of the advantages of choosing a cemetery burial is that it provides a permanent location where you and your family can visit. Most private cemeteries are well maintained by their staff and you can ensure that the remains of your loved one are safe. However, this option may be a bit pricey especially that you are buying a space or lot. Some cemeteries will require you to purchase a burial urn to prevent the ground of the urn from sinking. Some cemeteries also offer other options including full plot or urn garden plot. But you will have to pay extra charges for opening and closing the grave. It is also recommended that you compare the prices of different cemeteries who offer this kind of service.
But if you are not on a tight budget, then this option is perfect for you. Then you may ask your local florist to prepare condolence flowers where you can put it beside your loved one’s grave.
- Private Land
If you want to bury it in private land where you find it really memorable to you and to the deceased, you may do so but you have to ask permission from the owner of the property because you may be sued for trespassing. But, if your family owns a private land where you can bury the ashes, then this is a great choice for you. However, you may be needing permission from your local authorities if you want to bury it in your private land.
There are no specific rules on how deep the cremated ashes should be buried. But ideally, you have to bury it at least 1 meter deep. If you are not quite sure what urn to use, you may purchase a waterproof container that you can buy from your local stores. But if you are considering buying a biodegradable urn, you may put it in a container that is made of paper or board.
- Scattering the ashes in a park or public area
If you choose to scatter the ashes in a public place such as national parks, you may do so. There are some states in the U.S where they allow the scattering of ashes in their national parks. However, you may have to secure the necessary permits especially that you are scattering it in a public area where there are a lot of people going there. But if the local authorities gave you the permit, there are certain guidelines that you must follow. For example, you have to scatter it in a small and private area where there are fewer people going there. It should be at least 100 yards away from roads, bodies of water. You should avoid scattering them in an environmentally sensitive area.
- Scattering the ashes at the sea
If you want this option, you must follow the guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency especially if you’re from the U.S. According to EPA, you must at least be 3 nautical miles from the low water line. However, there are some states who do not need the necessary permit just to scatter the ashes at the sea.
Cremation is probably one of the best options nowadays, especially that lands are getting scarce. But if you are the type of person who likes to keep it intimate and bury it in a grave, you may do so. And it pays to be informed about cremation.
