More than half of American families now choose cremation, according to the National Funeral Directors Association. This page explains the main cremation options, the Florida rules that apply, and what happens to cremated remains afterward.
Three common ways to arrange cremation
Direct cremation
Cremation without a viewing or funeral beforehand. The simplest and usually least expensive option. A memorial can still be held later.
Funeral, then cremation
A visitation and funeral service with the body present, followed by cremation instead of burial. Often uses a rental casket.
Cremation with a memorial service
Cremation first, then a service with the urn or a photo present, on a date that suits the family.
Florida cremation rules in brief
- Waiting period: cremation cannot take place until 48 hours after death (Fla. Stat. 872.03).
- Medical examiner review: Florida requires the medical examiner to review deaths before cremation (Fla. Stat. 406.11).
- Written authorization: a legally authorized person must sign a cremation authorization and state what will happen to the cremated remains (Fla. Stat. 497.607).
- Unclaimed remains: a funeral or direct disposal establishment may dispose of cremated remains that are not claimed within 120 days (Fla. Stat. 497.607).
Full guide to Florida cremation requirements
Cremation guides
- Direct cremation in Melbourne
- What is cremation? The process step by step
- Florida cremation laws
- Information and documents needed for cremation
- How to choose a cremation provider
- Cremation costs
- Burial vs cremation
- Memorial services after cremation
- What happens to cremated remains
- Urns, niches and other memorial options
- Scattering ashes in Florida
- How long do funeral homes keep ashes?
- Urn size calculator
Questions about cremation in Melbourne?
Buggs Funeral Home operates its own crematory on site and can explain cremation options and prices from its General Price List.
Buggs Funeral Home & Crematory · 2701 S Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901 · Featured funeral home partner
Frequently asked questions
Who can authorize cremation in Florida?
A “legally authorized person” as defined in Florida law. The person who died can authorize their own cremation in writing before death. Otherwise authority passes in order to the surviving spouse, adult children, parents, adult siblings, adult grandchildren, grandparents and then more distant relatives (Fla. Stat. 497.005).
Is a casket required for cremation?
No. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, a funeral home offering direct cremation must make an alternative container, such as unfinished wood, fiberboard or cardboard, available. Some families rent a casket for a viewing before cremation.
Can we be present for the cremation?
Some crematories allow family members to witness the start of the cremation. Ask the provider whether this is available and whether there is a charge.
How long does it take to get the ashes back?
It varies. The 48-hour waiting period, medical examiner review and paperwork come first; the cremation itself takes a few hours plus cooling and processing. Ask your provider for their usual timeline.
Sources
- Florida Statutes 872.03, 406.11, 497.607, 497.005
- Federal Trade Commission, The FTC Funeral Rule
- National Funeral Directors Association, 2025 Cremation & Burial Report (projected U.S. cremation rate of 63.4% in 2025)
This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws and fees change; confirm details with the agency or a licensed professional. Editorial standards