Scattering Ashes in Ontario, Canada – The Law
The Law on Scattering Cremation Ashes in Ontario
Good news — scattering ashes in Ontario is permitted and quite straightforward. The provincial government allows the scattering of cremated remains on Crown land (public land owned by the government) that is unoccupied, including areas covered by water such as lakes, rivers, and parts of the Great Lakes. Even better, you don’t need a permit to do so.
This means families are free to choose meaningful natural settings — from the shores of Lake Ontario to forested trails or conservation areas — to hold a private, personal farewell.
Crown land includes:
Provincial parks and conservation reserves (unless otherwise indicated by local rules)
Bodies of water managed by the province, including the Great Lakes and their connecting waterways
However, authorities request that all scattering ceremonies be carried out in an environmentally sensitive way. If your ceremony includes natural materials such as flowers or leaves for religious or cultural rites, keep these to a minimum and use only biodegradable materials.
If you wish to scatter ashes on private land or waterways that are privately owned, you must first obtain the landowner’s consent. This includes private beaches, cottages, and marinas.
Key Takeaways
✅ No permit needed for scattering on unoccupied Crown land or water
✅ Private land requires permission from the owner
✅ Be environmentally responsible — avoid non-biodegradable materials
✅ Respect signage and local restrictions in parks or reserves
For more official guidance, you can refer to the Ontario government’s page on scattering cremated remains.
The Ashes Register – Helping Families Record Their Final Resting Place
When scattering ashes in a province as vast as Ontario, it’s important to record where the ashes were scattered. Many families wish they’d done this when future generations ask, “Where are Grandma’s ashes?”
That’s where The Ashes Register comes in. It allows families to log the exact resting place — whether on Lake Superior, a forest trail, or a favourite garden — creating a permanent, respectful record that future generations can find.
We want to put some of our dad’s ashes at a municipal Ontario park. Is this allowed?
What does it mean when it says you can spread ashes on Crown land in the Ontario area “that is unoccupied”. What does “that is unoccupied” mean?
So I would say that would mean building in the vicinity – this is how would interrupt it. They use these terms so that people have consideration for others and ‘common sense’ but can mean it comes across as vague.
Is it legal to scatter the ashes over the river Canadian side?
I think so but if any one over there in Canada could confirm if this is true – it would be appreciated.
Regards
Richard
Is it legal to throw cremations in the garbage?
Hi Patti
Possibly, I know people have put them down the drain before now.
Regards
Richard
Where in Ontario, close to London, can I spread ashes of my Dearest Husband.
I will be traveling from the USA to Lake Rideau to spread ashes. Can you tell me it is permitted at Rideau lakes, specifically, to spread ashes?
Hi there – I am afraid I don’t know, sorry. We are based in the UK.
Best wishes for your search
Richard
Why is this site in UK and dealing with Canadian waters. You need to work on this site your links don’t work. Are you in busy?
That is a very good question Rose, I write about anywhere and everywhere that is interesting – just sharing knowledge. I did this post about eight or nine years ago. I have no idea why Google priorities me over a more local sites. Hopefully our Canadian cousins don’t find this offensive…!
I will look at the links and point them in the right direction.
Regards
Richard
Is it OK to Scatter someones Ashes off a Pier like for example the Oakville Pier???
Yes but if the pier is private, you would need to ask the owners.
I don’t think the Oakville or Bronte pier is private cause people are aloud to walk out on it.
Private piers often allow public access.
Can you scatter someones ashes off a Pier Like for example the Oakville Pier??
Yes but if the pier is private, you would need to ask the owners.
Is it ok for someone to dump human ashes on your property? Without your knowledge?
Hi Jackie
No it is not okay. They need your permission.
Regards
Richard
Is a Toronto park considered crown land for the scattering of ashes? Specifically, along the Humber River, Magwood Park?
Hi Christine
I am afraid I don’t know that level of detail – we are based in the UK.
Kind regards
Richard
Toronto Park, Green space or Waterfront is prohibited and you would NOT be allowed to scatter human ashes! Check the Burial and Cremation Services Act for the Province of Ontario. The Act Subsection 4 (3). I have seen remains scattered in Provincial Parks in Ontario.
https://www.google.ca/amp/s/www.thestar.com/amp/news/gta/2021/05/23/we-live-in-a-very-diverse-city-as-cremations-increase-toronto-eyes-a-designated-site-for-the-scattering-of-ashes.html
This is fairly recent, June 2021
I want to be cremated and put in a nice vase and given to my daughter to have in her home. Is this allowed
Hi Cheryl, yes it is.
Is it possible to keep a loved ones ashes at home?
Dear Lois
If you are referring Ontario, then yes I believe so I have not read anything that prevents this.
Kind regards
Richard