Cremation is the process of reducing a body to bone fragments using intense heat. Those fragments are then processed into the finer material that families receive, often called ashes or cremated remains. In Florida, cremation must be performed by a licensed crematory, with authorization from the family and approval from the medical examiner.
How the process works
- Authorization and paperwork. The legally authorized person signs a cremation authorization. The funeral home files the death certificate and obtains medical examiner approval. Florida generally requires a 48-hour wait after death. See what information is needed for cremation.
- Preparation. Jewelry is removed if the family wishes, and medical devices such as pacemakers are removed. The person is placed in a rigid combustible container; a casket is not required.
- Cremation. The container is placed in the cremation chamber. The process usually takes a few hours.
- Processing. After cooling, the remaining bone fragments are processed into a uniform consistency and placed in a temporary container or the urn the family provides.
Identification tags stay with the person throughout. Crematories cremate one person at a time.
What families receive
An adult’s cremated remains usually weigh several pounds and look like coarse, light-gray sand. The amount relates to the person’s size and bone structure. See urn sizes.
Can we still have a funeral?
Yes. Cremation affects only the final disposition. Families can hold:
- a viewing and funeral before cremation,
- a memorial service afterward, with or without the urn present,
- a private gathering, a celebration of life, or a scattering ceremony.
See memorial service after cremation.
Religious considerations
Views differ. Many Christian denominations accept cremation; the Catholic Church permits it and asks that the remains be kept in a sacred place rather than scattered or kept at home. Cremation is customary in Hinduism and common in Buddhism. Traditional Jewish and Islamic practice generally call for burial. If faith matters to your family, talk with your clergy.
Options for cremated remains
- Keep them at home in an urn
- Place them in a columbarium niche or bury them in a cemetery
- Scatter them where Florida law allows. See scattering ashes in Florida.
- Divide them among family in keepsake urns or memorial jewelry
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.