Can I keep a funeral urn at home?

by Myriam Soucy October 31, 2023

Can I keep a funeral urn at home? A look at Canada and the rest of the world.

When we lose a loved one, it's natural to look for ways to honor them and keep their memory alive. One of the questions that may arise is whether you can keep a cremation urn at home. This question is complex, as it depends on both local regulations and personal preference. In this article, we will explore this question, with a focus on Canada, but also taking a look at other parts of the world.

Regulations in Canada:

In Canada, the question of keeping a funeral urn at home depends largely on the province or territory in which you reside. Burial laws vary from region to region, meaning the rules surrounding the safekeeping of ashes may differ. Here is a general overview of the regulations in different Canadian provinces:

British Columbia : It is generally permitted to keep a ballot box at home, with certain restrictions.
Alberta : Alberta allows the keeping of ballot boxes at home, subject to compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
Saskatchewan : In Saskatchewan, it is possible to keep an urn at home, provided that the ashes are placed in a waterproof and airtight urn.
Manitoba : Keeping urns at home is generally permitted, but strict rules on handling ashes apply.
Ontario : Ontario allows the keeping of ballot boxes at home, provided they are placed in a sealed waterproof ballot box.
Quebec : In Quebec, regulations are stricter, and it is common for urns to be kept in a cemetery, columbarium or mausoleum. Home care is less common.
New Brunswick : New Brunswick generally allows the keeping of ballot boxes at home, subject to compliance with provincial rules.
Nova Scotia : Nova Scotia allows keeping urns in one's home, but with strict guidelines regarding urns and ashes.
Prince Edward Island : In general, keeping a ballot box at home is permitted in Prince Edward Island, although specific restrictions may exist.
Newfoundland and Labrador : This province allows the keeping of ballot boxes at home, provided that the ballot box is waterproof and airtight.
Territories : In the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut, regulations may vary, but in general, keeping ballot boxes at home is permitted, subject to certain rules.

It is important to note that funeral laws may change, so it is essential to check with local authorities or funeral industry professionals for the most current and accurate information on keeping a funeral urn at home in your province. specific.

In the world :

Outside of Canada, regulations regarding the safekeeping of a funeral urn at home vary considerably from country to country. For example, in the United States, most states allow the keeping of ballot boxes at home, although some restrictions may apply. However, in some European countries, keeping urns at home is less common, and it may be necessary to place them in a cemetery or columbarium.

When considering keeping an urn in your home in an international context, it is essential to learn about the specific laws and regulations of the region concerned.

The advantages of a Concrete Memory concrete urn with a timeless modern design:

If you decide to keep a funeral urn at home, you can opt for an urn with a timeless modern design, such as the Concrete Memory urn. Here are some of the advantages of this choice:

Elegant aesthetic : Concrete urns with a modern design are often very elegant and aesthetically pleasing. They fit well into various interiors and can serve as a decorative centerpiece.
Durability : Concrete is a robust material that resists time. A concrete urn is built to last, meaning you will be able to keep your loved one's ashes safe and secure for many years.
Timelessness : The timeless modern design of these urns means they will remain relevant and stylish over time, which is essential if you plan to keep them in your home for many years.

Ultimately, the decision to keep a cremation urn at home will depend on your personal circumstances, preferences and local regulations. Whether you choose a concrete urn or another option, the key is to find a meaningful way to honor the memory of your loved one while respecting current laws.

To consult our catalog of urns and reliquary, it's here.

Thanks for reading.