Water Cremation Laws in Your State

Aquamation — also called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation — is a gentler, lower-impact alternative to flame cremation. It uses water and a small amount of alkali to accelerate natural decomposition, leaving bone fragments that are processed to ash much like flame cremation. Its popularity is growing, but its legal status still varies from state to state.

States where aquamation has been legal

As of this article's last update, aquamation was permitted for human remains in states including: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

States where it was not yet legal or was restricted

In the same period, aquamation was not yet authorized, or faced restrictions, in states including: Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin.

Several states in this second group have introduced legislation since, so this is exactly the kind of list worth re-checking each year.

The future of aquamation

As awareness of its environmental benefits grows, more states are expected to legalize the process. If you're considering it — for your facility or a loved one — confirm the current law in your state and work with a provider that offers it. For costs, see our guide to alkaline hydrolysis costs, and for the basics, aqua cremation explained.