Scattering ashes is permitted in the Netherlands in most places, but not everywhere. At a crematorium's own scattering field it's almost always allowed, on open water usually as well, but on public land such as a park, beach or your own garden, additional rules from the municipality or the landowner often apply. Since rules can differ per municipality and this article is not legal advice, it's always good to check with the municipality or the crematorium itself what is exactly permitted at your desired location.
The main rule in the Burial Act is that the ashes may be collected from the bereaved at least one month after cremation, and that scattering after that is in principle permitted everywhere where the legal representative has consent or where it is generally customary. In practice, this means: on the crematorium's or cemetery's own grounds it's straightforward, on public land you often have to give notice or request an exemption, and on someone else's private land you always need the owner's permission.
Where is it allowed, and where is the line
Most crematoria have their own scattering field where ashes may be scattered without a separate application, often as part of the service you already arrange with the cremation. Scattering at sea or on a river is generally permitted in the Netherlands without a permit, although there are sometimes restrictions around busy shipping routes or nature reserves. On land outside cemeteries, such as in a forest, on a mountain or in a park, it's more nuanced: some municipalities allow this without further ado, others ask for prior notice, and still others exclude certain locations because of nature management or nuisance to other visitors.
Your own garden is a desired location for many people, and that's usually allowed, as long as the ashes don't end up visibly on the street or at the neighbours' and no nuisance is created. When renting or selling the house, this can play a role later on, so it's good to take that into account when you record this wish.
Scattering ashes abroad
If the wish is to take ashes abroad, for example to a birthplace or a holiday destination that meant a lot, there's practically more involved. Customs regulations, airline transport rules and local legislation in the destination country all play a role. Here too, the rule applies: inquiring with the relevant authorities prevents disappointment later, and it's wise to share this wish in a timely and concrete way with whoever takes on the execution.
Why recording is more important than telling
A wish you've once spoken out loud can easily be confused, forgotten or incorrectly passed on at the actual moment. Bereaved people are often under emotional and practical pressure at the same time, and then a clear, written wish about where and how the ashes may be scattered is an enormous support. So not only record the location, but also details that make a difference: is it a specific spot in a park or somewhere on the water, do you want someone to read something while it happens, or would you prefer it to happen in silence.
Within clearly define your funeral wishes you can place this choice together with other farewell wishes in one place, so that your trusted buddies and loved ones know exactly what you meant. If you want to tell more than just the facts, a personal explanation via set up a message for later can add that little bit of warmth that a form cannot provide: why that place, what it meant to you, and what you hope the moment will mean for your loved ones.
What if the wish turns out not to be feasible after all
It can happen that a desired location is no longer possible at that moment, for example due to changed regulations or a closed area. Therefore, it is preferable to also provide an alternative, so that loved ones are not faced with a closed door and still know what would fit in the spirit of your wish. Many practical questions about this kind of situations, and about funeral wishes in general, are worked out on the page with frequently asked questions.
As scattering is for many a quiet, meaningful moment, and precisely for that reason it is worth taking care of the practical side early. This way, there remains space on the day itself for what really matters: saying goodbye.
Are you ready to record your wishes regarding the scattering of your ashes, and everything else that belongs to a proper farewell, yourself? You can start today for free create a free account at PSILY and at your own pace.