Requesting an exemption from the storage period for cremation ashes
If you wish to collect the ashes of a deceased person shortly after the cremation, you can only do this if the public prosecutor grants you an exemption from the required storage period. Without this exemption, the ashes must remain in the crematorium for at least one month.
Last updated on 19 May 2021
Lees deze informatie in het Nederlands
Eligibility for an exemption from the storage period for cremation ashes
The crematorium must keep the ashes of a deceased person for a period of one month after cremation. You can only be granted an exemption from this requirement in special circumstances, for example if you have to return abroad.
Applying for an exemption from the storage period for cremation ashes
You must contact the public prosecutor to apply for an exemption. You can do this by sending a letter stating:
- the personal details of the deceased;
- a copy of the death certificate;
- an explanation of why you need to collect the ashes early.
You must contact the public prosecutor to apply for an exemption. This will be the public prosecutor in the place where the death certificate is entered in the register. The public prosecution service has a list of public prosecutors which must be contacted to ask for an exemption from the storage period.
Laws and regulations (in Dutch)
Wet op de lijkbezorging, artikel 59