Can you scatter ashes in nature or your garden in Switzerland?

Swiss legislation: a rare freedom in Europe

In Switzerland, the scattering of ashes benefits from exceptional freedom in Europe. Unlike France, where the law imposes specific locations and prohibits any scattering in private spaces, Switzerland does not impose a restrictive federal framework.

This competence falls primarily to the cantons, but most adopt a liberal approach. You can scatter the ashes of a loved one in nature, in a private garden or in a watercourse, provided you respect a few rules of propriety.

This more flexible ash scattering law reflects a Swiss vision of respecting individual wishes. It offers families considerable latitude to honour the memory of their loved ones according to their personal convictions.

Our German and Austrian neighbours have restrictions similar to France, which makes Switzerland particularly attractive for those who wish for personalised scattering.

Scattering ashes in a private garden

Scattering ashes in a private garden is legal in Switzerland, but requires the explicit consent of the landowner. If you are the owner, you are free to proceed with the scattering.

On the other hand, if the garden belongs to a relative or third party, written authorisation is strongly recommended to avoid any subsequent conflict.

Consider the long-term implications: in the event of the property being sold or moving house, the new owner will not be obliged to respect this memorial site. This emotional dimension deserves to be discussed within the family before the decision.

Choose a discreet and peaceful area of the garden. Avoid frequently used areas or spaces intended for food cultivation. Respect and dignity must guide your choice.

Scattering in forests and mountains

Swiss forests and mountains offer natural settings conducive to the scattering of ashes. On private land, the owner's authorisation remains essential.

For public spaces, no formal authorisation is generally required, but rules of propriety apply. Avoid busy hiking trails, picnic areas, protected zones and nature parks where restrictions may apply.

Choose an isolated location, far from tourist routes. Scattering must be done discreetly and with respect for nature. Leave no waste behind, including the funeral urn if it is not biodegradable.

Some cantons may have specific regulations for sensitive natural areas. A quick call to the relevant commune can remove any doubt before the ceremony.

Scattering ashes in a lake or watercourse

Scattering in Swiss lakes and watercourses is permitted, but subject to particular rules related to water protection. Lakes Geneva, Zurich, Neuchâtel and the Four Cantons regularly host this type of ceremony.

To scatter ashes in Lake Geneva or in another body of water, favour areas away from beaches and drinking water intake facilities. Scattering must be done far from the banks and bathing areas.

Some cantons require prior notification or authorisation for watercourses. Enquire with your commune or the cantonal environmental service before proceeding.

Use a biodegradable funeral urn designed for water, which dissolves naturally without polluting. Avoid any scattering during times of high tourist activity.

Memorial gardens: a regulated alternative

Memorial gardens constitute a legal and secure option for families who prefer a permanent and maintained location. These landscaped spaces are found in most Swiss cemeteries.

Unlike private scattering, the memorial garden offers a place of contemplation accessible to all relatives, regardless of their geographical location. Maintenance is provided by the commune, which relieves families of this responsibility.

The ceremony can take place in a peaceful setting, often landscaped, sometimes with the possibility of adding a commemorative plaque. Costs vary according to communes, but generally remain moderate.

This solution is particularly suitable for families who wish for a fixed memorial site without the constraints of a traditional burial concession. Enquire with your commune to learn about the procedures.

Burying an urn in your garden: what the law says

Burying an urn differs legally from scattering ashes. This practice falls under variable cantonal regulations and is often stricter.

In several cantons, burying an urn in a private garden requires prior authorisation from the communal administration. Some prohibit it entirely, others authorise it under specific conditions.

If burial is permitted, the urn must be buried at sufficient depth (generally 80 cm minimum) and in a biodegradable material. The land must belong to the family and not be intended for sale in the near future.

Before any decision, contact your commune to verify local legislation. This step avoids subsequent legal complications, particularly in the event of a change of owner.

For a comprehensive ecological approach, consult our article on ecological burial.

Rules of propriety and respect for loved ones

Beyond the legal framework, propriety guides the choice of scattering location. Absolutely avoid public parks, children's playgrounds, restaurant terraces or any space frequented by the public.

Scattering must be done discreetly and with respect for other users of the space. Even if the law permits it, scattering ashes in a busy location may offend the sensibilities of others.

Also consider other family members. Wishes concerning scattering may diverge within the same family. Open and respectful dialogue helps avoid tensions and find a compromise acceptable to all.

If several relatives wish to keep a portion of the ashes, division is possible and legal in Switzerland. This solution allows everyone to honour the memory according to their convictions.

Practical formalities before scattering

Before proceeding with scattering, some administrative steps are necessary. First collect the urn from the crematorium or funeral home that organised the cremation.

The cremation certificate will be given to you with the urn. Keep it carefully: it constitutes the official document attesting to the cremation and may be requested subsequently for administrative procedures.

Depending on the location chosen for scattering, verify the necessary authorisations with the commune or canton. A simple telephone call is generally sufficient to obtain the required information.

Organise the ceremony according to your wishes: intimate or with several relatives, with or without religious ritual. Plan a respectful and peaceful moment of contemplation.

If you are considering scattering abroad, consult our guide on repatriating a funeral urn.

Biodegradable urns for respectful scattering

Biodegradable urns represent the ideal choice for environmentally respectful scattering. Made from natural materials such as cardboard, salt, sand or clay, they decompose without leaving a trace.

For scattering in water, opt for a specially designed funeral urn that floats for a few moments before gradually dissolving. This symbolic moment allows a peaceful final farewell.

For earth or nature, urns made of cardboard or plant fibres decompose naturally within a few months. They avoid any soil pollution and integrate harmoniously into the ecosystem.

These ecological urns are part of a more planet-friendly funeral approach. To deepen this reflection, discover our article on the impact of ecology on modern funeral practices.

What to do if you wish to scatter abroad?

Scattering ashes outside Switzerland requires specific administrative preparation. Each country applies its own ash regulations, often more restrictive than the Swiss ash scattering law.

France, for example, prohibits scattering in private gardens and imposes authorised locations. Italy requires prefectural authorisations. Germany applies strict rules that vary according to the Länder.

To transport an urn abroad, you must comply with customs formalities: translated cremation certificate, transport authorisation, customs declaration. By plane, the urn generally travels in the cabin in a suitable container.

Always enquire with the consulate of the destination country before any travel. Our detailed guide on repatriating a funeral urn accompanies you through these complex procedures.

Switzerland stands out for its particularly liberal legislation concerning the scattering of ashes. You can scatter in your private garden, in forests, in mountains or in watercourses, without prior authorisation. This rare freedom in Europe allows you to honour the memory of a loved one in a place that was dear to them, whilst respecting a few essential rules of propriety.

Before any scattering, ensure you obtain written authorisation from the crematorium, favour a biodegradable urn and inform your family of your intentions to avoid family conflicts. Respect for public places and discretion remain essential, even if the law does not formally impose it.

If you wish to inform your loved ones of the death of someone dear and share details of the ceremony or scattering location, publish an obituary on Wolky. Simple, accessible and respectful, our platform allows you to create a dignified memorial space for 180 CHF, accessible to all, 24 hours a day.