Choosing how and where to store the ashes of a deceased loved one is a crucial step after opting for cremation. Some decide to bury or bury the urn in the cemetery, others keep it at home, and there are those who choose to scatter the ashes in nature, perhaps respecting the wishes of the deceased.
Rules and Regulations for the Dispersion of Ash
The law establishes that both cremation and the scattering of the ashes can only take place if authorized by the civil registrar, on the basis of the wishes expressed by the deceased. The latter can be communicated verbally to the closest relatives or through a will. In the absence of such a will, the will of the spouse or, in his absence, of the closest relative exposed to the civil registry officer will be followed.
Permitted Places for Scattering of Ashes
It is essential to know that scattering ashes in nature is only allowed in specific areas established by the authorities. For example, it is forbidden to scatter ashes in residential areas or private areas without specific authorization from the owner, who cannot request money in exchange, as the scattering cannot be for profit.
Dispersal in the wild is permitted only in areas designated by the authorities. Some cemeteries, such as the Prima Porta cemetery in Rome, have green wooded areas and lakes where it is possible to celebrate the rite of dispersion in a suggestive and meaningful context. If you choose to scatter the ashes at sea, this can only happen in areas free from boats or artefacts, at least 100 meters from the shore. The same rules apply to rivers and lakes, and in all cases dispersal must be authorized by the Municipality.
Procedure for Dispersing Ash
To request the dispersion of the ashes in nature, it is necessary to submit an application to the Mayor of the Municipality where the death occurred, to the Municipality of residence of the deceased if the death occurred in another Region, or to the Municipality where the ashes were buried.
The scattering of ashes without authorization or carried out in a manner different from that indicated by the deceased is a criminal offence, punishable by imprisonment from two months to one year and the payment of a heavy fine.
Authorization for the Scattering of Ash
Only authorized people can scatter the ashes at sea. If the deceased has not specified who will take care of this ceremony, the spouse, other eligible family members and the authorized personnel of the Municipality, responsible for the funeral service, are authorized to carry out the dispersion.
The most qualified funeral agencies offer the service of scattering ashes at sea, a delicate service that requires the use of a boat to move away from the coast and the preparation of everything necessary to make the rite touching and profound.