One of the biggest questions people ask themselves when considering using a Bios Urn® is:
Where can I plant a biodegradable urn containing ashes?
What is often found is that many State laws don’t actually specify if it is legal or not to plant a biodegradable urn that turns a person into a tree. The laws have often not evolved as quickly as the marketplace. For example, planting a 100% biodegradable tree urn is not the same as scattering ashes, yet in some countries it falls under the regulations of the latter. Still, it is mandatory to understand all the laws and regulations about planting a biodegradable urn where you intend to plant before purchasing one. The laws and regulations relating to the burial of ashes or the scattering of ashes changes from State to State.
This article focuses on the United States and Canada. North America is one of the most advanced places in the world in terms of modern funeral options and planting locations.
This article hopes to provide initial guidance on possible planting places for your biodegradable tree urn where you live, but we cannot be responsible for the accuracy of the information featured as it is a complex and ever changing matter.We highly suggest that you contact the local authorities or a local funeral home for exact and up-to-date information. If you have anything to add or amend, please let us know. We would love to hear from you in the Comments section below!
Carry on reading to find out where to plant a biodegradable tree urn where you live.
Places Where The Bios Urn® Can Be Planted In The U.S.
Private Property
The Bios Urn ® can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden, as long as you have the owner’s consent. If you own a home, or property – planting on it is one of the best places. It’s recommended choosing a tree species which fits your location and space (and is appropriate in size.) You can find a list of tree recommendations for the U.S. here. Some people are worried about planting a Bios Urn ® in a backyard, in fear that they may some day move. If you are worried or find that you may someday move – arrangements can be made with a tree transplanting service. Generally these companies are skilled at moving or transporting trees without harming their root system, so that you can move it to the location you desire.
Most laws state that a person may plant or bury cremated remains in uninhabited public land, or on the private property of a consenting owner – but this may not be the case for all States so it´s always important to ask! Please be sure to investigate your state or region´s provincial laws in relation to ashes. Your funeral home should be able to provide further information.
Jay planted his father´s Bios Urn ® in his backyard.
In a planter, indoors or outdoors
All of our urns can be legally planted in a planter or container. You can plant the biodegradable tree urns both indoors or outdoors depending on the tree or plant species you choose.
Here are some planting tips for planting a Bios Urn® in a planter:
How To Plant The Bios Urn® In A Container or Planter
Indoor Trees You Can Use With A Bios Urn
Easy Houseplants To Use With A Bios Urn®
Five houseplants to that suck the toxins out of your indoor air
Outdoor Plants That Survive The Cold Winter Months In Planters
In case this is of interest to you, we have created our very own planter called the Bios Incube ® Lite which was designed to fit all of our urns perfectly. To find out more about the benefits, check out the 12 reasons to use a Bios Incube ® Lite here! Check out the new colors available and how this planter works here!
Regarding how long a tree can stay in a planter, it really depends on the tree or plant you choose. Once you plant the Bios Urn ® in your chosen container, it will biodegrade over time, during which time the tree will be growing.
If you choose a normal tree, once your tree has grown to an appropriate size, we do recommend planting it somewhere natural, such as a forest, or backyard, because trees will only grow in accordance to the volume of their soil. Technically, a tree will reach adequate size within 12-18 months. You can transplant the tree earlier or later. The time period to do so will also depend on the seeds you choose to use.
You can also choose to plant a dwarf tree or plant and leave it in the planter indefinitely. If you decide to plant a dwarf tree, it’s growth will be controlled, but it may still never reach it´s potential size inside the planter and may need transplanting depending on how it’s doing.
Once the tree has grown well and it is more established, this is a good time to choose to transplant it. Ideally at this point you would plant it in the earth so that its roots can carry on growing. There are many online tutorials dedicated to tree transplanting, which show the best methods to utilize to transplant a tree without compromising the root ball. We wrote this article about How to Bring Your Bios Urn Tree with you Even if you Move.
While some places may have restrictions with ashes, they do not have the same restrictions with trees, which is why planting in a planter to begin with is a good way to bypass these restrictions.
Sumi planted her mother´s Bougainvillea in a planter in her home.
In nature
Some forests which are local are a good place to plant the Bios Urn ®, although it is absolutely necessary to respect the local flora and plant an appropriate tree species which matches the local environment. Some forests and parks (especially national parks) may have differing laws or regulations about planting so it is necessary to inquire with local authorities about permissions. If the urn used is biodegradable, it does not need to be removed from the site. We have written a whole article on the topic of where to plant a biodegradable tree urn in a forest or a public place in the U.S. which you can read here.
Anne planted her mother´s Bios Urn ® in a forest close to her home.
We find this external website quite useful also with regards to the different laws per State.
Creative options
We have spoken to customers around the world who have told us that they have made arrangements in various locations such as: Golf Courses, Churches, Sacred Native American land, near lakes, and in special areas designated for the cause of tree-reforestation. Our suggestion is to find a place that works for you, and ask. Generally, if native tree seeds or a small native seedling are introduced, there should be no problems. See some useful resources you can share with them below so that they can clearly see the environmental benefits.
Tomas planted his grandfather´s Bios Urn ® by a lake.
Green (natural) Burial Locations
Many natural (green) burial grounds allow for the planting of a Bios Urn ®. The Green Burial Council provides a very informative list of Green Burial locations across the U.S., and many, if not most, of these locations will allow for a Bios Urn ® to be planted. Each one will be able to confirm if it is possible to plant a biodegradable tree urn as each natural burial ground offers different kinds of services. This external website also offers a list of green burial cemeteries in the U.S.
Some local cemeteries allow for a Bios Urn ® to be planted, but this really depends on your location. We have found that each State and country differs. We have also spoken with a few veteran cemeteries who were willing to accommodate this kind of burial.
You can also try carrying out an internet search with keywords such as “woodland burial”, “natural/green burial grounds” or “hybrid cemeteries” in your State, you should see what is closest to you and they are sure to be able to provide further information.
In case of doubt, you can inquire with a funeral director, a crematorium or a city cemetery, all of which generally offer advice and assistance services in this type of natural burial. In the meantime, crematoriums and funeral homes can sometimes temporarily store the ashes so that the family can decide what they would like to do with them.
Places Where The Bios Urn® Can Be Planted In Canada
Private Property
The Bios Urn® can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden, as long as you have the owner’s consent. If you own a home, or property – planting on it is one of the best places. It´s recommended choosing a tree species which fits your location and space (and is appropriate in size.) You can find a list of tree recommendations here. Some people are worried about planting a Bios Urn in a backyard, in fear that they may some day move. If you are worried or find that you may someday move – arrangements can be made with a tree transplanting service. Generally these companies are skilled at moving or transporting trees without harming their root system, so that you can move it to the location you desire.
Most laws state that a person may plant or bury cremated remains in uninhabited public land, or on the private property of a consenting owner – but this may not be the case for all provinces so it´s always important to ask! Please be sure to investigate your state or region´s provincial laws in relation to ashes. Your funeral home should be able to provide further information.
In a planter, indoors or outdoors
All of our urns can be legally planted in a planter or container. You can plant the biodegradable tree urns both indoors or outdoors depending on the tree or plant species you choose.
Here are some planting tips for planting a Bios Urn® in a planter:
How To Plant The Bios Urn® In A Container or Planter
Indoor Trees You Can Use With A Bios Urn
Easy Houseplants To Use With A Bios Urn®
Five houseplants to that suck the toxins out of your indoor air
Outdoor Plants That Survive The Cold Winter Months In Planters
In case this is of interest to you, we have created our very own planter called the Bios Incube ® Lite which was designed to fit all of our urns perfectly. To find out more about the benefits, check out the 12 reasons to use a Bios Incube ® Lite here! Check out the new colors available and how this planter works here!
Regarding how long a tree can stay in a planter, it really depends on the tree or plant you choose. Once you plant the Bios Urn ® in your chosen container, it will biodegrade over time, during which time the tree will be growing.
If you choose a normal tree, once your tree has grown to an appropriate size, we do recommend planting it somewhere natural, such as a forest, or backyard, because trees will only grow in accordance to the volume of their soil. Technically, a tree will reach adequate size within 12-18 months. You can transplant the tree earlier or later. The time period to do so will also depend on the seeds you choose to use.
You can also choose to plant a dwarf tree or plant and leave it in the planter indefinitely. If you decide to plant a dwarf tree, it’s growth will be controlled, but it may still never reach it´s potential size inside the planter and may need transplanting depending on how it’s doing.
Once the tree has grown well and it is more established, this is a good time to choose to transplant it. Ideally at this point you would plant it in the earth so that its roots can carry on growing. There are many online tutorials dedicated to tree transplanting, which show the best methods to utilize to transplant a tree without compromising the root ball. We wrote this article about How to Bring Your Bios Urn Tree with you Even if you Move.
While some places may have restrictions with ashes, they do not have the same restrictions with trees, which is why planting in a planter to begin with is a good way to bypass these restrictions.
Sumi planted her mother´s Bougainvillea in a planter in her home.
In nature
In Canada there are no federal laws associated with the scattering or burial of cremated remains in public places such as a forest and in most provinces no laws exist regarding this. Scattering is permitted on any Crown land and a permit is not required. However, there are some ground rules that should be followed. In all cases, permission should be obtained prior to scattering or burying and it is always recommended that the procedure be done with discretion. Please respect the surroundings and be environmentally sensitive. It´s recommended choosing a tree species which is native to the location.
Finally, please double check with the funeral director as provincial/territorial regulations may exist. Information can also be obtained from the Directorate of Management and Accountability Agreements and Institutional Relations of the Department of Health and Social Services in Canada. In the meantime, crematoriums and funeral homes temporarily store the ashes so that the family can decide what they would like to do with them.
Mathieu planted his urn in a forest in Quebec.
Green (natural) Burial Locations
Many natural (green) burial grounds allow for the planting of a Bios Urn ®. The Green Burial Canada website provides a very informative list of Green Burial locations across Canada, and many, if not most, of these locations will allow for a Bios Urn ® to be planted. Each one will be able to confirm if it is possible to plant a biodegradable tree urn as each natural burial ground offers different kinds of services. This external website also offers a list of green burial cemeteries in Canada (the bottom part with the grey background relates to Canada). And finally here is another external website which offers further information on natural burial locations in Canada.
Some local cemeteries allow for a Bios Urn ® to be planted, but this really depends on your location. We have found that each province and country differs.
You can also try carrying out an internet search with keywords such as “woodland burial”, “natural/green burial grounds” or “hybrid cemeteries” where you live to see what is closest to you. They will be able to provide further information.
In case of doubt, you can inquire with a funeral director, a crematorium or a city cemetery, all of which generally offer advice and assistance services in this type of natural burial. Information can also be obtained from the Directorate of Management and Accountability Agreements and Institutional Relations of the Department of Health and Social Services in Canada. In the meantime, crematoriums and funeral homes temporarily store the ashes so that the family can decide what they would like to do with them.
In the very first Bios Park ®
Did you know the first Bios Park ® is open in Canada (Quebec)? Find out all about it here.
Creative options
We have spoken to customers around the world who have told us that they have made arrangements in various locations such as: Golf Courses, Churches,national parks, near lakes, and in special areas designated for the cause of tree-reforestation. Our suggestion is to find a place that works for you, and ask. Generally, if native tree seeds or a small native seedling are introduced, there should be no problems. See some useful resources you can share with them below so that they can clearly see the environmental benefits.
Remember that if it is a private property (this is the case with golf courses for example), scattering the ashes requires the owner´s permission.
Final considerations for both countries
This article hopes to provide initial guidance on places to plant a biodegradable tree urn, but we cannot be responsible for the accuracy of the information. We highly suggest that you contact the local authorities or a local funeral home for exact and up-to-date information.
Here is some information that may prove useful should anyone wish to know the benefits of planting a Bios Urn ®:
The environmental impact of planting a Bios Urn®
Why Planting your Ashes Directly under a Tree will not work and How the Bios Urn® solves the problem
And finally, when planting in a natural environment, what we always say is that it is absolutely necessary to respect the local flora and plant an appropriate tree species which matches the local environment.
What did you think about this article on places to plant a biodegradable tree urn where you live? It is a complex matter and if you have anything to add or amend,please let us know. We would love to hear from you in the Comments section below!
To keep up to date with all the latest Bios Urn ® news and stories, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube!
If you are looking for places to plant a biodegradable tree urn in Europe, check out this article!
Join our mailing list to keep you updated of all Bios® news and get a 10% Discount!
Hea says
I have inquired how I could go the Bios Urn way in Germany. It seems to be difficult, and one would have to go for cremation in Germany, sending the ashes to the Netherlands, planting them there with a tree seedling and re-importing the tree to Germany. Couldn’t it be done easier? What is the status of your sales efforts in Germany?
Bios Urn says
Hello Heiki! In Germany, there is only one location where the Bios Urn can be legally used and planted on private property – which is in the city of Bremen. Other than this, the Bios Urn can be used in special natural burial grounds, often referred to as friedwald burial grounds! In Friedwalds generally, they do require the Bios Urn or any urn is buried 30 cm deep, so you must use a seedling for this. Hope this helps! Feel free to email us if you have any other questions.
Patricia Kachold says
Has anyone inquired in the United States about burying a Bio Urn in a Catholic Cemetery?
Bios Urn says
In Canada, there is one that allows it. In the United States, we are unsure about this information – as we have found many cemeteries have different rules and regulations regarding tree planting. Where are you location exactly?
Kim Girard-Vinzant says
Hello, I live in New York, City of The Brinx. I’m always into Mother Nature and this would be perfect for me when its time for me to leave this earth. Can you tell me if I can be buried in a pod here in NYC, Where and how much?
Bios Urn says
Hi Kim! Thanks for reaching out. We know of some natural burial grounds in the State of New York which you could look into: www.holysepulchre.org / http://www.naturalburial.org / http://www.holysepulchre.org / www.whitehavenmemorialpark.com / http://www.valecemetery.org / http://www.rhinebeckny.gov/cemetery.html . We hope this helps!
Tina says
Where in Canada?
Bios Urn says
Hello Tina. Thank you for reaching out to us and for your interest in the Bios Urn®, we are very grateful. In Canada, the only memory forest we know of where Quebec we know of this one who allow the plantation of our urns and organize beautiful ceremonies for family and friends is this one:
Boisé de Vie https://www.cimetierescatholiquesdegranby.com/
Have you tried searching online? You can try keywords such as “natural burial grounds”, “memorial gardens” or “green burial grounds” near where you live, you should see what is closest to you and they are sure to be able to provide further information also.
If you do find any more places in Canada, please do let us know! We are always on the lookout for forward-thinking cemeteries and natural burial grounds around the world 🙂
Mackenzie OToole says
Looking for a public place to plant in Santa Cruz county, either a cemetery or forest. If you could contact me back with any specific places that would be great.
Dan says
Was there an answer to this question? I’m also looking to plant in Santa Cruz county. Preferably a forest.
Bios Urn says
Dear Dan and Mackensie. Thank you for your messages. We unfortunately don’t know of any specific memorial gardens or burial forests in Santa Cruz. Is anyone else reading this able to recommend one? Have you tried searching online? After a brief search, we found this website which offers information on natural burials in California and mentions Santa Cruz: https://capitolaaptosrotary.org/stories/green-burials Alternatively, maybe a private land owner or your local council would be interested in creating one! Please keep us posted. Warm regards
Shirley says
Hello, I am wondering where your locations are for the trees
To be planted, for USA, FLORIDA.
Thank You
Bios Urn says
Hi Shirley! Are you interested in natural burial grounds, or memorial parks?
Angie says
I’m in England and this is by far better than just scattering ashes I love this but where would I possibly be able to plant a tree here I do not own my own property or land ????
Vicky says
Did you find somewhere in england?
Bios Urn says
Hello Vicky! The Bios Urn can be planted in many places in England, including woodland burial sites. Please email our team at [email protected] with your postal code or city and we will find some local places near you which allow for the Bios Urn to be planted!
Sandra Bibbs says
How much does it cost in Toledo, Ohio. will plant in back yard.
Bios Urn says
Hi Sandra! The Bios Urn is $145
Tracy says
Looking to see if there is a ability to be planted in a city zoo or park . Specifically Winnipeg, MB Canada? Or anywhere in our city besides owned property?
Bios Urn says
Hi Tracy! If it a special location, like a zoo or a park, we recommend contacting ones near you to request if this service can be done. Some parks or forests allow ash scattering and burial, so it truly depends on where you are located and interested in.
Pam Crowe says
How much for this burial?
Bios Urn says
Hello Pam! The Bios Urn is $145
barbara van der meer says
I would like to know if you can do this in Melbourne Australia
Sutton Turner says
I love the idea of planting a Bio Urn near a lake. My grandpa is requesting to be cremated when he passes and he used to love going to our local lake. I appreciate the information on planting plants with cremated remains.
Bios Urn says
Hi Sutton! Beautiful idea, that’s what Tomas did! We will send you some information now.
Ann Genovese says
Love this idea. I have always hated traditional funerals/wakes. Especially how bodies are pumped with chemicals, painted like dolls and put on display. It’s just not natural. I have always wanted cremation and scattered in a field of flowers and trees. This method is brilliant as my remains can become something beautiful. It would be great if a small plaque can be attached to the tree as to identify the tree of your loved one, so family can come and visit too. What we need is a list of all the forests, parks, land needed for reforestation. It would be of so helpful to potential customers to have this information hand in their search for that perfect place. In the meantime, I am determined to keep an open dialogue on this beautiful natural method of burial thru Facebook, friends, co-workers, etc.
Bios Urn says
Exactly Ann! Please reach out if you ever need any help at all.
Bios Urn says
Thank you Ann! We rely on wonderful people like you. We appreciate you.
Sheryl says
Hello,
Are there any California state or national parks where a redwood bios urn can be planted?
Lois says
What plant would thrive in south Texas, to assure that the plant would continue to grow?
Ed says
Hello, are there any public parks in St. Louis City or County that allow for Bios Urn? Forest Park?
Bios Urn says
Hello Ed! When it comes to public spaces, generally you will need to inquire within. If any of these parks have a special place for “ash scattering” they may allow for ash-planting.
Jessica says
Hi there. I am curious and wondering where I could legally bury (besides private property) a bios urn in Mercer or Forrest counties in Pennsylvania USA. Thank you very much in advance!
Bios Urn says
Hi Jessica! What kind of spaces were you interested in?
Brendan says
I live in San Antonio Texas and am wondering where i might be able to plant the bio urn. I work for a local funeral home and have many people inquire about the options in regard to all aspects of a more green way. can you send me materials and info?
Bios Urn says
Hi Brendan! Our team is emailing you now.
Florie says
Are there any places in California where you can also have a plaque with the tree?
Bios Urn says
Hi Florie, email us and we will find ones close to you.
Patrick Huang says
Can you tell me a Bio urn bury in Agoura Hills, CA? Can I spread the ashes in the nearby Santa Monica mountain public parks
Bios Urn says
Hi Patrick. We aren’t able to say specifically for the Agoura Hills, CA, but we recommend that you get in touch with local authorities to find out. You can find out more information about planting your Bios Urn in a public park or forest here: https://biosurn.wpengine.com/planting-bios-urn-forest-park-public/ Good luck in your search for the perfect spot and keep us posted! Warm regards
Ivan Garcia says
Do you know how much time you take to deliver to México City?
Bios Urn says
Hi Ivan! Around 7-10 business days.
Claudette Ernst says
Can you plant a tree in Saskatchewan , Canada on private property?
Bios Urn says
Hello Claudette, thank you for getting in touch with us. Yes the Bios Urn can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden. Let us know if we can help with anything else!
Carol Baird says
Hi, I live in West Tennessee. I am wondering where I might be able to plant a bio urn in Tennessee, especially in the Smoky Mountains area or the Tennessee river area. It would be great if it is an area that reforestation is needed.
Bios Urn says
Hello Carol, we really appreciate you getting in touch with us. Seeing as you are looking for a public space, we have created an article with recommendations about planting your Bios Urn in a public park or forest on our website: https://biosurn.wpengine.com/planting-bios-urn-forest-park-public/ You could definitely get in touch with the Smoky Mountains office for their advice. Keep us posted!
Rita O'Hara says
Being a Catholic it’s important that ALL ashes remain together. Is that the case with your urns?
Thank you for answering me.
Bios Urn says
Dear Rita, thank you for getting in touch with us. The Bios Urn has the capacity for 2.5 liters of ashes which corresponds to the ashes of 1 person, so yes all the ashes remain together if you wish for them to be. Please don´ t hesitate to get in touch if you have any more questions.
Megan Tasker says
Is there anywhere in Florida that allows ashes to be planted as a tree? Maybe around the Orlando area?
Bios Urn says
Hello Megan. The Bios Urn can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden. If you are looking for a public space, you can search for parks and forests near you and then follow our recommendations about planting your Bios Urn in a public place here: https://biosurn.wpengine.com/planting-bios-urn-forest-park-public/ We hope that this will help your search for the ideal spot! If any other readers can recommend specific places near this area, they are also more than welcome.
Maureen Fraser says
Hi, where can trees be planted in Edmonton, Alberta Canada. Thanks
Bios Urn says
Hello Maureen! Thank you for your message. The Bios Urn can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden. If you are looking for a public space, you can search for parks near you and then follow our recommendations about planting your Bios Urn in a public park or forest here: https://biosurn.wpengine.com/planting-bios-urn-forest-park-public/ We hope that it answers your questions. If not let us know and we will try to provide you more information. Thanks!
TORONTO says
Hello, Im wondering if theres somewhere near Toronto, Ontario to be buried.
Bios Urn says
Thank you for your message. The Bios Urn can be legally planted on any private property, such as a backyard or garden. If you are looking for a public place, we recommend you enquire about the local laws in your country. You may also find these articles useful.
https://urnabios.com/planting-bios-urn-forest-park-public/
https://urnabios.com/natural-burial-grounds-and-memorial-gardens/
If you Google natural burial grounds or memorial gardens near Toronto, you should see what is closest to you and they are sure to be able to provide further information also.
If anyone else reading this message gives in Canada and can recommend somewhere please let us know!
We hope that it answers your questions. If not let us know and we will try to provide you more information.
Vicky says
Can existing cremation remains be converted to a bios urn?
Bios Urn says
Definitely. The Bios Urn® can be used with ash saved from another urn. As such, if you already have the ashes in your house, you may purchase the urn and transfer the ashes into it. You can also bring the Bios Urn® to a crematorium or funeral home so they can handle the task of transferring the ash for you. Let us know if we can help with anything else Vicky, thank you.
Peta Smedley says
I live in Belgium, would like my body put into a pod,and buried, in or near forest area ,or ground aloted to that type of burials. Or is it only ashes that are buried with a tree to grow.
Can you let me know if it is already accepted here,and how much a pod that size would cost.Also would funeral directors be able to do this work,in some,how does it work.I love this idea and have been following you since a long time,as I become older I think more about getting it organized before I shuffle off this mortal couple!!
Bios Urn says
Thank you for following us for so long Peta! Our Bios Urn costs 140€ and shipping to Belgium is currently 8€. They are designed for cremation ashes. From what we know, the laws in Belgium regarding what one can do with human remains is quite limited. We unfortunately aren’t aware of a specific place in this area of the world. If you live in the Walloon Region, you are able to take ashes which are in an urn in your home to a burial ground (this has been entirely possible since the 2016 decree). However, Brussels legislation does not yet offer this possibility. If you decide to no longer keep the ashes at home, Brussels law gives you the only possibility of bringing them to a cemetery. And regardless of where you live, if the ashes are already in a cemetery, they can not be taken to a burial ground. However, laws change quickly so we recommend that you check with your municipality what the latest is. It´s a good thing to investigate with time. And please do keep us update!
11. Mom’s ashes are in a columbarium at the cemetery. Can they join the forest?
No unfortunately, this scenario is not authorized by law.
Monica Tomkinson says
I have a prepaid funeral.
I would like to know if there are any suitable woods in my area
which would take my ashes
My postcode is LA14 5PA
Thank you
Monica Tomkinson
Bios Urn says
Thank you for reaching out Monica! We are very grateful. Is this a UK postcode?
Traci says
What about in Texas
Bios Urn says
Dear Traci. We unfortunately aren’t aware of a specific place in Texas according to our U.S. directory. Seeing as you live in the US, we find this website quite useful https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/ but they do not list any natural burial grounds in your state. Have you tried an online search?
Karen Magestro says
Southeast Wisconsin place for a bios urn.
Bios Urn says
Hello Karen! We just sent you an email with places we know of in Wisconsin.
Eda-Sun Dogan says
Hey there!
Do you know if I’m allowed to use your Urns in Turkey? My Grandma wishes to be cremated and wants her dog to be cremated once he is dead as well, and I would like to make sure they are together once they are dead… I can imagine Turkey has pretty strict regulations on that, so I’d also be willing to take the way and get it done in Bulgaria, Greece or even Serbia…. Can you give me any legal advice on those countries?
Bios Urn says
Hello Eda
Thank you for your interest. Regarding legalities, we are a small online business which sends our urns to every corner of the world and unfortunately we aren’t aware of the laws and regulations in every single country, especially as it can also vary from region to region in a country. The thing that we find is that many countries´ laws don’t actually specify the legal usage of biodegradable urns. The laws have not evolved as quickly as the marketplace. So it is a bit of a hybrid. Does one need to look at regulations regarding the “disposal” of human remains? And/or regulations regarding planting a tree in a public place? It is never 100% clear.
As far as we are aware, there are no facilities for cremation in Turkey. It does not seem to be legal. Is this truly the case? We can only assume that laws are therefore very strict regarding cremains. The question is what can property owners do on their own land. Maybe here there is a possibility.
Regarding Greece, here is some information https://www.angloinfo.com/how-to/greece/healthcare/death-dying As for Bulgaria we couldn´t say.
We are currently preparing a future blog article about the legalities of planting a Bios Urn on private or public land in Europe as it varies a lot from country to country. Although it does not contemplate Turkey or Bulgaria, it may cover Greece, our legal team is working on this. We hope at least to have offered some further guidance.
Warm regards
Paul says
Is it legal to bury human urns on privat property in Austria or Switzerland?
Thank you for your Information
Bios Urn says
Hi Paul. Thank you for reaching out to us. Regarding legalities, we are a small online business which sends our urns to every corner of the world and unfortunately we aren’t aware of the laws and regulations in every single country, especially as it can also vary from region to region in a country. The thing that we find is that many countries´ laws don’t actually specify the legal usage of biodegradable urns. The laws have not evolved as quickly as the marketplace. So it is a bit of a hybrid. Does one need to look at regulations regarding the “disposal” of human remains? And/or regulations regarding planting a tree in a public place? It is never 100% clear.
We are currently preparing a future blog article about the legalities of planting a Bios Urn on private or public land in Europe as it varies a lot from country to country. Until then, this website seems to have information relating to Switzerland: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/human-ashes-litter-swiss-countryside/30534188 As for Austria, we haven´t bee able to find any information at this time. We hope at least to have offered some further guidance for Switzerland.
Warm regards
Jessy says
Hi, do you have anything like this in Malaysia? We are looking for such information.
Bios Urn says
Dear Jessy. We are afraid that we wouldn´t be able to recommend a specific place to plant a Bios Urn in Malaysia, nor do we know the laws there about planting a Bios Urn on private property. We can recommend some native Malaysian trees if this is of interest to you! https://urnabios.com/popular-trees-in-asia-you-can-grow-with-a-bios-urn/ 🙂
Mohican says
Bonjour,
Comment se renseigner où enterrer une urne bios?
Est ce que chaque ville ou village peut l’autoriser?
Bios Urn says
Merci d´avoir pris contact avec nous et pour votre intérêt envers Urne Bios®!
Si vous pouvez nous spécificer dans quel pays vous vivez nous pourrons répondre plus spécifiquemment. Si vous le préferrez, vous pouvez nous envoyer un couriel à [email protected] où nous vous répondrons plus rapidemment. Sachez para ailleurs que ce weekend nous publierons un article de Blog avec les différentes lois européennes sur la plantation d´une urne bios sur la plantation d´une urne bios sur terrain privé ou public. Si vous vous registrez à notre bulletin hebdomadaire en français, vous recevrez directamente le lien à l´article lorsqu´il sera publié. Voici le lien pour se registrer: https://urnabios.us6.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=fc31541c30&id=e5a1a4df2a
Bien cordialement
Tamala says
I would just let to know do you have to be cremated first and how much does it cost??
Bios Urn says
Hi there Tamala. Thank you for reaching out. Yes, for a person´s remains to be placed in a Bios Urn and to be turned into a tree, the person (or pet) must be cremated first. we know that the average cremation cost in the US is between $4,000 and $7,000. If you choose “direct cremation”, the cost is on the lower end. More info on direct cremation here: https://urnabios.com/celebrities-direct-cremation-instead-traditional-burials/
The price of the urns is $140 + shipping. You can see the shipping cost when you enter in your personal details in the Shopping Cart stage before making the payment. A pack of seeds would be around $5 and a seedling or plant anything from $10 upwards.
Just so you know, our biodegradable tree urns can also be used without ashes as a way for a loved-one to be reminded by. More information on this here: https://urnabios.com/how-does-a-bios-urn-work-without-ashes/
Let us know if you have any more questions! Thank you