Choosing between cremation or burial is one of the first decisions to make when planning a funeral. This decision is often guided by the wishes of the deceased, yet it can also depend on financial, family, or cultural considerations. In Quebec, both options will require different steps.
Key takeaways
- Cremations and burials are governed by specific rules in Quebec.
- Costs vary widely depending on the choices made.
- Some fees are unavoidable, no matter which option you select.
- Spiritual beliefs and the place for remembrance play a key role in the decision.
The main technical and legal differences
Burial involves interring the body in a cemetery, in a casket, along with the purchase of a funeral concession. Cremation consists of reducing the body to ashes in a crematorium. The ashes can then be kept in an urn, buried, or scattered.
Both practices are regulated by law. The burial must take place in a cemetery recognized by law, and the body must be placed in a casket. You therefore need to plan for the purchase of a plot and a casket, which can represent a significant portion of the budget, especially when it comes to the cost of a cemetery plot.
As for cremation, the family is free to decide how to handle the ashes, as long as they are not scattered in a way that is harmful or disrespectful to the deceased. It is even possible to bury the urn at home, but you will have to disinter it if you leave the property.
Cost comparison table
Here is a summary of the average costs for burial vs. cremation in Quebec:
| Burial | Cremation | |
|---|---|---|
| Total | $5,000 to $25,000 | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Urn | - | $100 to $500 |
| Casket | $1,500 to $2,000 (base)$10,000 + (high-end) | - |
| Cemetery plot (concession) | $1,500 to $5,000 | Optional: $750 to $1,500 (depending on size) |
| Grave opening fee | $500 to $1,300 | Optional |
| Headstone | $1,500 to $5,000 | Optional |
| Columbarium niche | - | Optional: $350 to $5,000 |
Fees vary greatly depending on the location, the services chosen, the size of the plot or the headstone, and other factors. Note as well that the final cost of the funeral depends on your selection of services, products, and ceremonies.
Unavoidable fees and hidden costs
Whichever option you choose, some fees are unavoidable during funeral arrangements:
- Transfer of the deceased (transport)
- Professional fees and service coordination
- Preparation of government documents
- Cremation container and ash transport container, or casket
If you opt for burial, the purchase of a plot, grave opening fees, the headstone, as well as maintenance fees are added to the bill. Do not forget that engraving (name, dates, epitaph) is added to the base price.
At Yves Légaré, there are no hidden fees. We know this is a difficult time. Our advisors explain the details of your package and all the costs tied to your choice to better guide you.
Traditions and cultural considerations in Quebec
Quebec, with its rich cultural and religious diversity, welcomes various perspectives on cremation and burial.
Religious perspectives
In Quebec, several religious traditions coexist regarding cremation and burial. The Catholic Church now allows cremation and authorizes holding a ceremony in the presence of ashes. Beliefs may nonetheless vary.
In some spiritual faiths, burning the body has a purifying effect that would help the soul detach to reach the afterlife. Asian religions (Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism) have practiced cremation for millennia.
Some traditions, however, favour burial out of respect for the physical body, for example Islam and Judaism. The idea of interment can also feel more comforting. In all cases, take into account the beliefs of the deceased and the family.
Importance of visits and place of remembrance
Burial in a cemetery offers a place of remembrance that can help loved ones in their grieving process. It is also possible to bury the urn if you wish. A columbarium also provides a calm, serene space for gathering after cremation. There are different columbarium options and their prices vary depending on the location and the type of niche.
Impacts on planning and on the family
If you are wondering what to choose between cremation or burial, organizational aspects and impacts on the family should weigh in the balance. If you arrange funeral prearrangements, also think about the impact of your choice on your loved ones when you are no longer here.
Ceremony flexibility and timelines
Cremation offers considerable flexibility. A ceremony can be held before or after the cremation, with or without a viewing (embalming). Once the cremation has taken place, it is possible to schedule the funeral at a later date, like if relatives live far away, for example.
Burial generally involves a tighter schedule and coordination with the cemetery. You should know that it remains possible to have the body in the funeral home for up to 30 days following the death, or up to 60 days with a closed casket.
Whatever your choice, Yves Légaré supports you step by step with the cremation or burial process for a stress-free experience. Our advisors can help you organize simple or more elaborate funerals that reflect your family and the deceased’s values.
FAQ
Is cremation always cheaper?
Cremation itself is less expensive than burial. However, the final price varies greatly depending on your choices of services and products.
Can the body be viewed before cremation?
Yes, it is possible.
Can the ashes be scattered freely?
Yes, as long as the scattering does not create a nuisance and respects the memory of the deceased. Regulations apply to dispersal in waterways.
Can I freely choose the burial site?
Yes, but the site must be a cemetery recognized by law, and the body must be placed in a casket. Yves Légaré owns cemeteries in Laval and Longueuil.
Does the Catholic Church allow cremation?
Yes, since 1963.
