5 Best Ways to Handle Cremated Remains in Utah

In Utah, you can handle cremated remains by burying them in a cemetery, placing them in a columbarium niche, keeping them in an urn at home, or scattering them on private or certain public lands. Families often choose options that reflect their loved one’s personality while following state regulations and local guidelines.

What are the laws for scattering ashes in Utah?

One of the most frequent questions we receive at Berg Mortuary is regarding the legalities of scattering ashes in Utah. Many families find comfort in returning a loved one’s remains to a place they loved, whether it is the rugged peaks of the Wasatch Range or the red rocks of southern Utah. However, there are specific rules you must follow to ensure you are acting within the law.

In Utah, there are no specific state laws that prohibit the scattering of cremated remains, but you must have permission from the landowner or the agency that manages the land. For private property, you simply need the consent of the owner. For public lands, the rules vary by agency:

• National Parks: Most parks in Utah, like Zion or Arches, allow scattering but require a Special Use Permit and often restrict scattering to specific areas away from trails.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM): Generally allowed on most BLM-managed lands, provided it is done discreetly and away from developed sites or water sources.
• National Forests: The U.S. Forest Service usually allows scattering, but it is best to check with the specific ranger district in Utah County or beyond.
• Waterways: If you wish to scatter in a river or lake, you must follow the Clean Water Act, which typically requires being a certain distance from the shore.

When considering scattering ashes in Utah, it is helpful to think about the long-term accessibility of the site. While a remote mountain peak is beautiful today, will family members be able to visit it in twenty or thirty years? This is why many families choose to scatter a portion of the remains while keeping another portion in a permanent location.

Can you bury cremated remains in a Utah cemetery?

Yes, burying cremated remains in a cemetery is a very popular option for families in Provo, Orem, and throughout Utah County. This provides a permanent, protected location where future generations can come to pay their respects. Unlike scattering, a cemetery burial ensures that the remains are not disturbed and provides a central location for genealogical records.

Most cemeteries in our area have specific requirements for the burial of cremated remains. It is important to consult the Utah County Cemetery Directory to understand the rules of the specific location you are considering. Common requirements include:

1. Purchase of a Plot: You can often bury multiple urns in a single traditional burial plot, or some cemeteries offer smaller "urn plots."
2. Urn Vaults: Many Utah cemeteries require an outer burial container, or urn vault, to prevent the ground from settling over time.
3. Headstones and Markers: Burial allows for a permanent monument or flat marker to be placed, inscribed with the individual’s name and dates.
4. Opening and Closing Fees: Just like a traditional burial, there are administrative and labor costs associated with the interment.
5. Perpetual Care: Most established cemeteries include a fee for the ongoing maintenance of the grounds.

By choosing burial, you are creating a lasting tribute. At Berg Mortuary, we assist families in coordinating with local sextons and ensuring that all necessary arrangements are made for a respectful graveside service. If you are just beginning this journey, you may want to read about When a Death Occurs to understand the initial steps of the process.

Advantages of Choosing a Columbarium Niche

For those who want a permanent resting place but prefer an above-ground option, a columbarium niche is an excellent choice. A columbarium is a structure, often located within a cemetery or a dedicated memorial garden, that contains small compartments called niches. These niches are designed to hold one or more cremation urns.

There are several advantages to choosing a columbarium niche in Utah County. First, it offers a clean, architectural beauty. Many columbariums feature granite or marble faces that can be beautifully engraved with names, dates, and even small symbols or verses. Second, niches are often located in peaceful, highly accessible areas of the cemetery, making them easy to visit year-round, even during the snowy Utah winters.

Additionally, columbarium niches are often a more cost-effective option than traditional ground burial because they require less space and do not typically necessitate an urn vault. If you are interested in exploring these options further, our team can show you the various Service Offerings we provide, including how we coordinate niche placements in local cemeteries.

How do you divide cremated remains among family?

In modern funeral planning, it is increasingly common for families to choose to divide the cremated remains. This is often done when family members live in different parts of the country or when there is a desire to honor the deceased in multiple ways. For example, a portion of the remains might be buried in a family plot in Provo, while another portion is kept by a spouse, and smaller portions are placed in keepsake jewelry for children.

Dividing cremated remains is a delicate process that we handle with the utmost respect at Berg Mortuary. We can help you select "keepsake urns," which are smaller versions of traditional urns, to hold these portions. This allows every family member to have a physical connection to their loved one.

When deciding to divide remains, it is important to communicate openly with all family members. This ensures that everyone’s feelings are considered and that the distribution is handled equitably. If you are struggling with these decisions or the emotions that come with them, we invite you to look through our Grief Support resources for guidance on navigating family dynamics during loss.

Creative Memorial Keepsakes and Urns

Beyond traditional urns, there are now countless creative ways to handle cremated remains that allow for a unique and personal tribute. These options are particularly appealing for families who want to keep their loved one close to home or carry a part of them throughout their daily lives.

• Cremation Jewelry: Small pendants, rings, or bracelets that hold a tiny portion of remains.
• Glass Art: Remains can be swirled into hand-blown glass ornaments, paperweights, or sculptures.
• Memorial Diamonds: Using specialized processes, carbon from the remains can be turned into a certified diamond.
• Birdbaths and Garden Stones: For those who loved nature, remains can be incorporated into concrete garden features.
• Biodegradable Urns: Designed to break down naturally, these are used for water burials or for planting a tree in memory of the deceased.

Selecting an urn or keepsake is a deeply personal choice. We often suggest that families take their time with this decision. There is no rush to choose a final vessel immediately following the cremation process. You can browse our Price List for an idea of the various types of memorial products available through our facilities.

Memorial Service Options After Cremation

Choosing cremation does not mean you have to skip the memorial service. In fact, cremation often provides more flexibility for planning a meaningful gathering. Because there is no immediate pressure for a burial, families can take the time to organize a service that truly reflects the life lived, often weeks or even months after the passing.

At Berg Mortuary, we have seen beautiful memorial services held at our chapels, in local parks, or even at family residences in Orem and Springville. You might choose a traditional funeral with the urn present, or a more casual "celebration of life" that focuses on storytelling and shared memories. If your loved one was a veteran, we are honored to help you arrange for military honors, which you can learn more about on our Veterans Benefits page.

How to Choose the Right Final Resting Place

Deciding what to do with ashes after cremation is a significant choice that carries emotional and practical weight. To help you make the best decision for your family, consider these questions:

• Does the family need a permanent place to visit? If so, cemetery burial or a columbarium niche is best.
• Was there a location particularly meaningful to the deceased? Scattering may be the most fitting tribute in this case.
• Is there a desire for the remains to stay together? Some families feel strongly about keeping all remains in one place, while others prefer to divide them.
• What is the budget for the final disposition? Options range from the zero-cost scattering (after permits) to the more involved cemetery interments.

Our staff at Berg Mortuary is always here to listen and provide clarity. We have been a part of this community for generations, and our Our History is built on helping families through these very questions. If you have specific concerns, we encourage you to check our Frequent Questions or Contact Us directly for a consultation.

Conclusion: Finding Peace in Your Decision

Deciding what to do with cremated remains in Utah is a personal journey that depends on your family's traditions, the wishes of the deceased, and your vision for a lasting legacy. Whether you choose a serene mountain scattering, a permanent cemetery burial in Utah County, or a unique memorial keepsake, the goal is to find a solution that brings your family peace and honors your loved one’s memory with dignity.

Key Takeaways for Utah Families:

• Always obtain permits for scattering ashes on Utah public lands.
• Consider cemetery burial or a columbarium for a permanent, visitable site.
• Explore creative options like jewelry or glass art for a personal touch.
• Consult with a local funeral professional to ensure all state and local rules are followed.

For personalized guidance or to begin the process, feel free to reach out to our team at Berg Mortuary or start your journey by reviewing our Pre-Planning Checklist .