Where can I scatter my ashes after I die?

I often get this question from family and friends who live in Toronto and throughout Ontario.

Just as a matter of interest, cremation rates are on the rise in Canada. In 2021, about 75% of deaths that occurred in the country were followed by cremation, according to the Cremation Association of North America.

Scattering ashes in the City of Toronto parks, on city land or in Lake Ontario is allowed, and permission is not required. In that case, I would like half of my ashes to be scattered in Lake Ontario from my sail boat, The Crawfish.

The city recommends one of its parks, Prince of Wales Park in Etobicoke, for the dispersal of funeral ashes as it is “accessible, scenic and tranquil.” The City has even  compassionately placed signs for recommended scattering areas.

The Province of Ontario also allows visitors to scatter ashes in provincial parks, either on land or into water as it does not pose an environmental risk to humans or wildlife. In that case the other half of my ashes will be scattered in beautiful Algonquin Park!

Finally, for those wishing to scatter ashes on private property, it’s advised to get written permission from the owner.

Note: Every City, Province, State and Country will have their own policies. Please check in advance.