Guidelines for scattering human ashes in Europe
Laws & Customs by Country
Before exploring the specific rules for scattering ashes across Europe, it helps to first understand the respectful and practical ways this farewell can take place. Depending on your wishes and the setting you choose, there are different methods and tools designed to ensure the scattering is carried out with dignity.
To guide you through this process, we’ve prepared resources that offer both practical advice and inspiration:
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History of cremation in Europe – Discover the origins of cremation and urns in our European cultures
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Scattering Ashes and the Law – Learn about the legal considerations to keep in mind before choosing a location.
- Ceremony Ideas for Ash Scattering – Find meaningful ways to create a personal and heartfelt remembrance.
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The Importance of Grief in Our Lives – Denial or the refusal to accept the departure of a loved one is the source of many afflictions.
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Tree Urn A Natural Way to Scatter Ashes with Meaning – Tree Urn is a cork urn medium-term biodegradable, designed for the scattering of ashes.
Country-by-Country Guide to Ash Scattering in Europe
| Country | Allowed in Nature? | Allowed at Sea? | Cemetery / Official Fields Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albania | Case by case (permit) | Not explicitly regulated | Yes (for burial) | Uncommon; local approval recommended |
| Andorra | Limited; designated areas / private with consent | N/A (landlocked) | Yes (designated cemetery areas) | Municipal coordination required for nature |
| Armenia | Largely unregulated; private land with consent | N/A (landlocked) | No (not specifically defined) | Culturally uncommon in public places |
| Austria | No (rare exceptions) | No (rare exceptions) | Yes | Strict rules; local authority approval essential |
| Belgium | No (private land with consent only) | Yes (regulated) | Yes | Municipal scattering gardens required |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | Private land with consent; public nature unclear | Uncommon | No (not explicit) | Consult local authorities; few official fields |
| Bulgaria | No (unless designated) | Yes (permit) | Yes | Official fields in cities; formal ceremonies common |
| Croatia | Strict limits (permit required) | Yes (popular) | Yes | Adriatic scatterings common; land needs approval |
| Cyprus | Designated areas only | Yes (common; notify authorities) | Yes | Procedures vary by community; advance notice |
| Czech Republic | Yes (landowner + municipality permission) | N/A (landlocked) | No (designated fields also exist) | Popular: rivers, forests, mountains |
| Denmark | Approved areas; private land requires consent + authority | Yes (approved) | No (official gardens available) | Sea scatterings popular (Baltic/North Sea) |
| Estonia | Yes (with permission) | Yes | No | Baltic coast, lakes, forests common |
| Finland | Yes (with landowner/authority consent) | Yes (sea & lakes) | No | Small, intimate nature ceremonies |
| France | Yes (with permit; not in cities) | Yes | No (nature allowed with declaration) | Owner consent for private land; declare to city hall |
| Germany | No (cemetery-only policy) | Yes (authorised maritime zones) | Yes | Certificate with exact sea coordinates provided |
| Greece | Remote areas with approval | Yes (with approval) | Yes (permits required) | Sea scatterings common near islands |
| Hungary | Generally no (official fields only) | N/A (no sea) | Yes | Scattering in nature needs special approval |
| Iceland | Regulated; permits for land (parks/geothermal) | Yes (common; respectful practice) | No (but permits often needed) | Small, private ceremonies in remote areas |
| Ireland | Yes (largely unregulated) | Yes | No | Symbolic coastlines and parks popular |
| Italy | Yes (authorisation required) | Yes | No (outside cities; permits instead) | Municipal & regional approvals may be needed |
| Latvia | Yes (with permission) | Yes | No | Baltic coast & forests frequently chosen |
| Liechtenstein | Only cemetery fields or private with consent | N/A (landlocked) | Yes | Alpine scatterings rarely authorised |
| Lithuania | Yes (with approval) | Yes | No | Cemeteries also offer scattering fields |
| Luxembourg | Yes (with owner + local authority consent) | Yes (regulated) | Yes (specific rules) | Official serene scattering areas available |
| Malta | Highly restricted on land | Yes (permit; offshore) | Yes (practically) | Sea scatterings preferred; strong traditions |
| Moldova | Unregulated; private land with consent | N/A (landlocked) | No (public scatterings rare) | Often done privately on family land |
| Monaco | Private land only with explicit permissions | Yes (Maritime Authority approval) | Yes (strict) | Many choose columbaria or international waters |
| Montenegro | Private land with consent; nature needs authorisation | Rare; authorisation required | No (not explicit) | Scenic sites chosen occasionally |
| Netherlands | Yes (municipal consent) | Yes (offshore; no licence) | No (official gardens common) | Memorial forests & scattering services available |
| North Macedonia | Private land with consent; public needs approval | N/A (landlocked) | No (not explicit) | Symbolic sites like Lake Ohrid |
| Norway | Yes (permit from municipality/county) | Yes | Yes (permission required) | Fjords popular; small nature ceremonies |
| Poland | No | No | Yes (mandatory) | Cemetery interment only |
| Portugal | Yes (private with consent; some official areas) | Yes (Maritime Authority permit) | Yes | Popular: Atlantic Ocean, vineyards |
| Romania | No (special permit required) | Very rare | Yes (mandatory) | Cemetery interment required by law |
| San Marino | Designated cemetery areas / private with consent | N/A (landlocked) | Yes | Nature/public areas need licence |
| Serbia | Private land with consent; public needs authorisation | N/A (landlocked) | No (not explicit) | Uncommon; influenced by Orthodox tradition |
| Slovakia | No (only cemetery fields) | N/A (landlocked) | Yes (designated fields only) | Nature/water/private land not allowed |
| Slovenia | Yes (strict conditions; approvals needed) | N/A (short coastline via Slovenia has sea; but sea scatterings exist) | Yes (for many cases) | Alps, lakes, forests popular |
| Spain | Yes (region-specific permissions) | Yes (common) | Yes (varies by region) | Mediterranean, Sierra Nevada, Canary Islands |
| Sweden | Yes (with permission) | Yes (popular) | Yes (permission) | Nature-focused ceremonies valued |
| Switzerland | Yes (freely, discreetly) | N/A (no sea) | No (if outside cemeteries) | Alps & lakes widely used |
| Turkey | No (not supported by law) | No | Yes (burial required) | Cremation & scattering practically forbidden |
| Ukraine | Regulated; permit for nature | Regulated (permit) | Yes (often cemetery fields) | Growing acceptance in cities |
| United Kingdom | Yes (respectful use of public spaces) | Yes | No | Popular: parks, beaches, national parks |
| Vatican City | No | No | Yes (sacred places only) | Scattering & home-keeping not permitted |
Scattering ashes in Albania
Cremation has only recently been legalized in Albania, and scattering ashes is still uncommon. Religious traditions, especially within Islamic and Orthodox Christian communities, traditionally discourage cremation. However, acceptance is slowly growing in urban areas.
Scattering is allowed on private property with the landowner’s consent. In natural areas or at sea, there is no explicit law, so practices vary depending on local interpretation and require approval from authorities. Families often choose symbolic places in the mountains or along the Adriatic coast.
Scattering ashes in Andorra
In Andorra, scattering ashes is restricted by the country’s size and strict rules. It is permitted only in designated cemetery areas or on private land with the owner’s consent.
Although the Pyrenees provide a beautiful setting, scattering in nature requires coordination with the local municipality. Public natural areas and protected land are off-limits without a licence.
Scattering ashes in Armenia
Cremation is rare in Armenia due to the Armenian Apostolic Church’s opposition. As a result, ash scattering is also very uncommon and largely unregulated.
When chosen, scattering usually happens on private land with the owner’s permission. Scattering in public or natural areas is culturally unusual and not clearly defined by law, though it may sometimes be tolerated in rural regions.
Scattering ashes in Austria
Austria enforces strict rules on scattering ashes. It is allowed only in special cemetery areas or on private land with formal permission. Scattering freely in nature is only possible in exceptional cases.
Local authorities must approve any request, even in mountainous areas. Families often hold a ceremony in a designated site followed by a symbolic walk in nature. Read More
Scattering ashes in Belgium
Belgium has detailed regulations. Ashes may be scattered in municipal scattering gardens, cemeteries, or on private land with written consent from the owner. Scattering at sea is also permitted under specific conditions, such as minimum distances from the shore.
Municipalities are required to provide scattering facilities, often in memorial forests or fields designed for remembrance. Many families also choose their own garden for a more intimate farewell.
Scattering ashes in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Cremation is legal but rare, influenced by Islamic, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. Scattering ashes on private land with the owner’s consent is possible, though not explicitly addressed by national law.
Sea scatterings are uncommon, but mountain and rural areas are sometimes chosen. Formal scattering fields are scarce, and organising a ceremony often requires consulting local authorities.
Scattering ashes in Bulgaria
Bulgaria applies strict rules: ashes may only be scattered in official cemetery areas or designated scattering fields. Scattering in nature requires special authorisation.
Memorial sites exist in cities like Sofia and Varna, offering dedicated facilities. Scattering at sea is allowed with permission. Families often organise formal ceremonies to ensure dignity.
Scattering ashes in Croatia
In Croatia, scattering is permitted by law, mainly at sea. Scattering on land—such as in forests—requires local approval and must respect environmental regulations.
The Adriatic Sea is the most popular choice, with families hiring boats for ceremonies. A few designated cemetery scattering sites also exist. While burial remains traditional, cremation and scattering are gaining acceptance in cities.
Scattering ashes in Cyprus
In Cyprus, scattering is permitted mainly at sea and in specific designated areas. Families must notify local authorities in advance.
Sea scatterings, often from chartered boats, are common and frequently personalised with cultural or religious elements.
Scattering ashes in Czech Republic
The Czech Republic allows scattering in designated cemetery fields as well as in nature, provided consent is obtained from both the landowner and local municipality.
Popular locations include rivers, forests, and mountains. Czech society is generally open to varied funeral practices, with many families opting for quiet nature ceremonies.
Scattering ashes in Denmark
In Denmark, scattering is legal at sea and in approved areas. On private land, explicit consent is needed from both the owner and authorities.
Municipalities often provide scattering gardens. Sea scatterings are especially popular along the Baltic and North Sea coasts. Families typically choose serene natural settings.
Scattering ashes in Estonia
Estonia allows ashes to be scattered at sea and in natural areas with local authority approval. Common choices include the Baltic coast, lakes, and forests.
Municipalities also provide scattering gardens, where families hold quiet ceremonies with respect for nature.
Scattering ashes in Finland
In Finland, scattering is widely accepted in lakes, forests, and at sea, with consent from landowners or local authorities.
Families often hold small, intimate gatherings in nature. Some municipalities also provide official memorial areas for scattering.
Scattering ashes in France
France permits scattering in nature (forests, mountains, or sea) but prohibits it in cities, public parks, and gardens. Private land scattering requires the owner’s written consent and a declaration to local authorities.
The sea is a common choice, but all scatterings must be reported to the municipality. Read More
Scattering ashes in Germany
Germany has some of Europe’s strictest rules. Ashes must be placed in cemeteries—either in urn graves or columbaria. Read More
Scattering is generally prohibited except at sea in authorised maritime zones of the North Sea or Baltic Sea, handled by licensed services that issue certificates of the scattering site.
Scattering ashes in Greece
In Greece, ashes may be scattered at sea or in remote natural locations with prior approval from local authorities.
The country’s many islands and coastlines make sea scatterings very common, often carried out by boat. Family traditions and religious customs still play a strong role in farewell ceremonies.
Scattering ashes in Hungary
Hungary applies strict regulations. Scattering is generally limited to cemetery scattering areas or official fields. Scattering in nature requires special approval from authorities.
Official sites are usually landscaped within cemeteries. Water scatterings are possible but less frequent. Families often organise formal ceremonies with professional funeral services.
Scattering ashes in Iceland
In Iceland, scattering ashes is permitted but tightly controlled due to the fragile natural environment. Sea scatterings are common and generally do not require a permit if done respectfully.
On land—especially in national parks or geothermal areas—approval from environmental authorities is required. Families often prefer small, private ceremonies in remote areas that respect both nature and tradition.
Scattering ashes in Ireland
In Ireland, scattering ashes is mostly unregulated and considered a personal choice. Sea, river, and lakeside scatterings are common and do not need a permit, provided they are carried out respectfully.
Scattering on private property is allowed with the landowner’s consent. Popular choices include the Cliffs of Moher, coastal areas, and national parks. Families usually hold intimate and symbolic ceremonies.
Scattering ashes in Italy
In Italy, local authorisation is required before scattering ashes. It is usually allowed in natural areas such as seas, forests, and mountains, but strictly forbidden in cities and urban spaces.
Ceremonies often take place in iconic landscapes like Tuscany, Sicily, Sardinia, or the Alps. Families should expect some bureaucracy, as approval may be needed from both municipal and regional authorities.
Scattering ashes in Latvia
In Latvia, scattering is allowed in natural areas such as forests, lakes, and the Baltic Sea, provided approval is obtained from the landowner or local authority.
Some cemeteries also offer official scattering fields. Many families prefer quiet, nature-based ceremonies that reflect Latvian traditions of harmony with the environment.
Scattering ashes in Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein follows rules similar to Switzerland, though stricter due to its small territory. Scattering is only permitted in cemetery fields or on private land with the owner’s consent.
Alpine scatterings are rare and require significant authorisation. Families often hold ceremonies in the peaceful mountain surroundings for a personal and reflective farewell.
Scattering ashes in Lithuania
In Lithuania, scattering is permitted in seas, lakes, and forests with prior approval from authorities or landowners.
While traditional burials were long the norm, cremation and scattering have grown in popularity in recent decades. Families often hold small, respectful ceremonies in nature, with some cemeteries also offering scattering fields.
Scattering ashes in Luxembourg
Luxembourg allows scattering under specific conditions. It may take place in cemetery fields, or on private/public land with the consent of both the owner and local authorities.
The government provides official scattering areas, often equipped with memorial plaques. Water scatterings, such as on the Moselle River, are possible but regulated.
Scattering ashes in Malta
In Malta, scattering is uncommon and highly restricted. It is allowed at sea with a permit from the Maritime Authority, provided it is performed far from the coastline.
Land scatterings are rarely authorised, and Catholic traditions mean many families prefer columbarium interments.
Scattering ashes in Moldova
In Moldova, cremation remains rare and ash scattering is not formally regulated. Scattering on private land may be possible with the landowner’s permission.
Scattering in public spaces or rivers is generally not permitted without exceptional approval. Families choosing scattering usually do so privately on family-owned land.
Scattering ashes in Monaco
Due to Monaco’s very small size, scattering is strictly limited. Sea scatterings are allowed with Maritime Authority approval at a respectful distance from the coast.
On land, scattering is possible only with explicit permission from both the landowner and authorities. Many families choose columbaria or scatter ashes in international waters nearby.
Scattering ashes in Montenegro
Cremation is relatively new in Montenegro and not yet widespread. Ash scattering is not clearly regulated, but may be done on private land with the owner’s consent.
Sea or nature scatterings are rare and require local authorisation. Scenic areas like Durmitor National Park are sometimes chosen for symbolic farewells.
Scattering ashes in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, scattering is widely accepted. Municipalities provide designated scattering fields and memorial forests, and scattering on private land is also permitted with the landowner’s consent.
At sea, scattering is legal without a licence if done outside coastal waters. Many families choose beaches, nature reserves, or symbolic landscapes, often with the help of professional scattering services. Read more
Scattering ashes in North Macedonia
Cremation has only recently been legalised and is still not widely practised. Ash scattering is not explicitly regulated but can take place on private land with the owner’s consent.
Public or natural scatterings usually require municipal approval. Symbolic sites such as Lake Ohrid or mountain regions are sometimes selected.
Scattering ashes in Norway
In Norway, scattering is permitted at sea, in lakes, or in mountains, provided permission is obtained from the municipality or county governor.
Sea scatterings, especially along fjords, are very popular. Families often choose small nature ceremonies, sometimes supported by municipalities offering official scattering areas.
Scattering ashes in Poland
Poland has some of the strictest rules in Europe. Ashes must be interred in a cemetery—in an urn grave, columbarium, or underground vault.
Scattering in public, private, or natural areas is not permitted. Catholic tradition and the emphasis on grave preservation strongly shape this policy.
Scattering ashes in Portugal
In Portugal, scattering is allowed under regulation. At sea, it requires prior authorisation from the Maritime Authority.
On land, scattering is permitted on private property with consent, or in cemetery scattering areas. Protected parks or reserves require special permits. Families often choose meaningful places like the Atlantic Ocean or vineyards.
Scattering ashes in Romania
In Romania, scattering ashes is a new and uncommon practice. By law, ashes must be interred in cemeteries. Scattering in nature or on private land is possible only with a special permit from local authorities.
Sea or river scatterings are extremely rare. The Orthodox Church plays a strong role, promoting traditional burial, though cremation is slowly gaining ground in urban areas. Read more
Scattering ashes in Russia
In Russia, cremation is legal and practiced mainly in large cities, though traditional burial remains the dominant choice. Ashes are usually interred in cemeteries, either in urn graves or columbaria.
Scattering ashes in public places, rivers, or forests is not officially regulated and is generally discouraged. By law, ashes should be placed in a cemetery. Some families may scatter ashes privately in nature or on family-owned land, but this practice has no clear legal framework and is not formally recognised by authorities.
Scattering ashes in San Marino
In San Marino, scattering is permitted but strictly limited to cemetery areas or private land with the owner’s permission.
Scattering in nature or public places is not allowed without a licence. Many families choose to scatter ashes at sea along the nearby Italian coastline.
Scattering ashes in Serbia
Cremation is legal but uncommon due to Orthodox tradition. Ash scattering is not clearly defined by law but may take place on private land with the owner’s consent.
Public or natural scatterings require local approval and remain rare. Families who choose this option often select symbolic locations such as forests or along the Danube.
Scattering ashes in Slovakia
In Slovakia, scattering is only permitted in cemetery fields. It is not allowed in nature, water, or private land.
While Catholic customs remain strong, cremation is slowly gaining ground, and municipalities are beginning to introduce designated scattering sites.
Scattering ashes in Slovenia
In Slovenia, scattering is allowed under strict conditions. It can take place in cemetery scattering fields or, with approval, in natural areas and on private land.
Popular choices include the Alps, lakes, and forests, with families often preferring intimate gatherings in nature.
Scattering ashes in Spain
Spain has region-specific rules. Generally, scattering is allowed at sea or in natural areas with local authorisation.
Cities provide memorial parks and cemetery scattering sites. Families often choose locations such as the Mediterranean, Sierra Nevada, or Canary Islands. Local confirmation is advised before planning. Read More
Scattering ashes in Sweden
Sweden has relatively flexible rules. Scattering is allowed in forests, mountains, lakes, and seas, provided consent is obtained from authorities or landowners.
Sea scatterings are very common, and municipalities also provide cemetery scattering areas. Nature-based ceremonies are highly valued in Swedish culture.
Scattering ashes in Switzerland
Switzerland is among the most permissive countries. Scattering is legal in natural areas such as mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers, provided it is done discreetly and respectfully.
Families often choose the Alps or major lakes, while municipalities also offer cemetery scattering sites. Ceremonies are usually intimate and nature-focused.
Scattering ashes in Turkey
In Turkey, cremation and scattering are practically forbidden due to Islamic law, which requires burial. Crematoria are virtually absent, and scattering has no legal framework.
Turkish citizens seeking cremation often go abroad. If ashes are returned, scattering is done privately and without official recognition.
Scattering ashes in Ukraine
In Ukraine, cremation is legal, and scattering is possible but regulated. Most scatterings take place in cemetery fields. Scattering in nature requires special permission from authorities.
The Orthodox Church continues to favour burial, but cremation and scattering are gaining acceptance in cities. Families often combine official ceremonies with private symbolic farewells in nature.
Scattering ashes in United Kingdom
The UK has relatively relaxed rules. Ashes may be scattered in parks, rivers, forests, and other public places, provided it is done respectfully. On private land, landowner consent is required.
Special permits are needed for certain historic or protected sites. Families often choose beaches, cliffs, or national parks with personal meaning. Read More
Scattering ashes in Vatican City
Scattering ashes is strictly forbidden in Vatican City. The Catholic Church allows cremation but requires ashes to be kept in sacred places such as cemeteries or columbaria.
Scattering, dividing ashes among family members, or keeping them at home is not permitted under Church doctrine.
Conclusion
Regulations on scattering ashes vary widely across Europe—from very strict in countries like Germany and Poland to highly flexible in Spain, Switzerland and the UK.
It is always important to check local laws and obtain the necessary approvals to ensure that the farewell is carried out legally, respectfully, and in harmony with cultural traditions.