Where can you scatter ashes in Kansas and Missouri? What to know about cremation laws

Joseph Hernandez
·2 min read

Across the United States, cremation is an increasingly popular option for people at the end of life.

The Cremation Association of North America’s 2023 study showed that almost 60% of people in the U.S. chose cremation instead of a regular burial in 2022 The organization predicts that number will jump to 65% by 2027.

Before they die, many people choose to be cremated and request that their ashes be scattered in a meaningful place, such as where they were born or met their partner.

But where can you scatter your ashes in Kansas and Missouri?

According to state laws in both Kansas and Missouri, there are no restrictions on where you can scatter ashes.

Your loved one’s ashes can be placed or scattered:

  • In a crypt, niche or grave

  • In a scattering garden

  • On private land

  • On uninhabited public land

  • Any public waterway

You should ask for permission before spreading ashes on private property and it’s recommended that you check city and county regulations and zoning rules before scattering ashes on public land, like at a park.

The Clean Water Act also states you can’t place items like plastic flowers, wreaths and others that aren’t decomposable in the water. This means you can’t stand on the beach or a pier and throw ashes into the water.

CAN YOU SCATTER ASHES IN NATIONAL PARKS?

You can with a permit, according to the National Park Service. You must follow these guidelines when you spread your ashes:

  • The group is limited to six people.

  • Ashes must be scattered on land and away from any cultural features that will impact visitors.

  • You can’t leave any monument or marker at the site.

  • You can’t bury human ashes.

  • Your group’s event must comply with all other park regulations.

Fill out Form 10-930s and submit it to the email address on the application form to get your scattered ashes permit. Applications are usually processed within 10 business days.

WHAT ABOUT WATER CREMATION IN KANSAS CITY?

The process known as alkaline hydrolysis is legal in Kansas and Missouri.

This type of cremation uses water and chemicals to break down body tissue inside a heated, pressurized container. It makes the decomposition process faster by breaking tissue down to liquids that can be flushed away.

After that, the remaining bone fragments are then pulverized into a fine powder — ashes — that can be placed into an urn.

The Cremation Association of North America said this process is more environmentally friendly since it uses less fuel than the traditional cremation.