What Are Your Options for Burial or Cremation in California?
When most people think about estate planning, they think about wills, trusts, and protecting assets. But one of the most personal — and often overlooked — parts of the planning process is deciding how you want your remains handled after you’re gone.
This is something we take care of for you as part of the estate planning process here at Kaminski Law Group. In fact, we’ll include your specific burial or cremation wishes right in your Advance Health Care Directive — so there’s never any question about your preferences.
Here’s a quick guide to California’s legal options for burial and cremation:
→ Traditional Burial
Interment in a public or private cemetery — either through casket burial or burial of cremated remains.
→ Cremation
Cremated remains can be:
- Buried or placed in a cemetery
- Scattered at sea (with a permit)
- Kept in a private home or religious location
→ Alkaline Hydrolysis (Water Cremation)
An eco-friendly option using water and alkaline chemicals to break down remains. The result is similar to cremation and can be buried, scattered, or kept at home.
→ Scattering at Sea
Scattering is permitted — but must take place at least 500 yards from shore and not from bridges or piers. A permit is required.
→ Keeping Remains at Home or in a Religious Setting
Families may keep cremated or hydrolyzed remains at home, in a church, or religious shrine — provided the remains are stored responsibly.
Why This Matters in Estate Planning
Making your wishes known ahead of time is a priceless gift to your family. It prevents stress, confusion, and potential disagreements during an already difficult time.
When you work with us, we’ll walk you through all of these options and record your preferences directly in your estate plan — specifically in your Advance Health Care Directive — so your loved ones will know exactly what you wanted.
Ready to Plan Ahead with Confidence?
This is just one of the many ways a thoughtful estate plan provides clarity, peace of mind, and protection for your family.
We’d love to help you get started.
→ Join one of our upcoming free workshops:
https://www.californiatrusts.
→ Or schedule a consultation with our team:
https://www.californiatrusts.
