Cremation is now chosen by many Central Florida families. It can be simple and private, or part of a full funeral with a viewing and ceremony. This guide explains the options, the Florida requirements and the costs, so you can decide what fits your family.
Types of cremation
| Option | What it includes | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Direct cremation | Transfer, required paperwork, cremation and return of the cremated remains. No viewing or ceremony beforehand. | Usually the lowest-cost option. A memorial service can still be held later. |
| Cremation with a memorial service | Direct cremation followed by a service, with or without the urn present. | Flexible timing; the service can be weeks later. |
| Cremation with a viewing and funeral | Viewing and funeral service first (often with a rental casket), then cremation. | Similar to a traditional funeral in format and closer to it in cost. |
Read more: direct cremation in Orlando and memorial services after cremation.
Florida requirements in brief
- Authorization. The legally authorized person signs a cremation authorization form. See who can make funeral arrangements in Florida.
- Medical examiner approval. Florida requires the district medical examiner to approve every cremation. The funeral home requests it.
- Waiting period. Florida generally requires at least 48 hours after death before cremation.
- Container. A casket is not required. Crematories use a rigid combustible container, often called an alternative container.
Details: what information is needed for cremation in Florida and how long cremation takes.
Costs
Cremation costs vary widely depending on what is included. Direct cremation is typically far less than a funeral with a viewing. Use the funeral cost calculator for a planning range, and read cremation cost in Orlando and cremation vs. burial cost.
After cremation: urns, keeping, burial and scattering
- Urns. An adult urn usually needs about 1 cubic inch per pound of body weight. Use the urn size calculator and our guide to choosing an urn.
- Scattering. Florida allows scattering in several settings, with conditions. See scattering cremated remains in Florida.
- Travel. See flying with cremated remains.
- Burial or niche. Cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery plot or placed in a columbarium niche.
All cremation guides
- What is cremation?
- Direct cremation in Orlando
- Cremation cost in Orlando
- How long does cremation take in Florida?
- What information do I need for cremation?
- Scattering ashes in Florida
- Flying with cremated remains (TSA)
- Cremation vs. burial cost
- Memorial service after cremation
- Cremation urn sizes
This article is general information about Florida funeral practices, not legal advice. Florida law regulates the handling, transportation, cremation and disposition of human remains, and requirements can depend on the circumstances. For advice about a specific situation, speak with a licensed Florida funeral director or an attorney. Editorial policy.