If you are asking “Is aquamation legal in Georgia?”, the short answer is: Yes, human aquamation is legal in Georgia.
Aquamation, scientifically known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, has been legally recognized in the Peach State since 2012. Georgia expanded its statutory definitions under Ga. Code § 43-18-1 to include chemical dissolution processes and explicitly recognize alkaline hydrolysis equipment under state cremation rules.
As eco-conscious families across Georgia seek gentle, green alternatives to flame-based cremation, water cremation continues to grow in availability throughout the Metro Atlanta area, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, and Savannah.
This 2026 guide explains Georgia’s aquamation laws, environmental benefits, average costs, and key tips for selecting an urn for bone ash remains.
Georgia Aquamation Laws at a Glance
-
Human Remains Legal Status: Legal statewide. Recognized under Ga. Code § 43-18-1 within the statutory definition of cremation.
-
Pet Remains Legal Status: Legal and widely available through veterinary partners and dedicated pet aftercare facilities statewide.
-
Regulatory Body: Georgia Board of Funeral Service (under the Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Boards Division).
-
Final Returned Remains: Pure, pale white bone powder.
-
Volume Yield: Yields approximately 20% to 30% more ash volume than traditional flame cremation.
What Is Aquamation (Water Cremation)?
Aquamation also called green cremation, bio-cremation, liquid cremation, or flameless cremation is a gentle, water-based final disposition method.
Instead of using direct high heat and fossil fuels to reduce human remains, aquamation uses a solution of 95% warm water and 5% alkali solution (potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide). Over a 6- to 12-hour cycle inside a sealed stainless steel vessel, warm liquid flow and alkalinity accelerate the body's natural breakdown process.
At the end of the process, only soft, mineral bone fragments remain. These fragments are dried and processed into a fine white powder that can be safely kept at home, buried, or scattered.
Aquamation vs. Traditional Cremation: Key Differences
| Feature | Aquamation (Water Cremation) | Traditional Flame Cremation |
| Primary Method | 95% Water & 5% Alkali Solution | Direct High Heat / Open Flame |
| Energy Consumption | Uses ~90% less energy | High fossil fuel consumption (natural gas/propane) |
| Emissions | Zero direct greenhouse gas stack emissions | Direct carbon dioxide and thermal emissions |
| Returned Remains | Fine, pale white powder | Coarser, gray bone ash |
| Ash Volume | ~20% to 30% greater returned volume | Standard baseline volume |
How Much Does Aquamation Cost in Georgia?
In Georgia, aquamation pricing varies depending on regional provider availability and chosen service packages:
-
Direct Human Aquamation: $1,500 – $3,200
-
Full-Service Aquamation (with Memorial Services): $3,500 – $5,500
-
Pet Aquamation: $150 – $450 (varies by pet weight)
Direct aquamation is generally comparable in cost to traditional flame cremation while offering a significantly smaller carbon footprint.
Choosing an Urn for Aquamation Remains
Because aquamation preserves more bone material than high-heat incineration, the returned remains typically occupy 20% to 30% more space than flame cremation ashes.
When shopping for an adult memorial vessel, keeping internal capacity in mind is crucial:
-
Adult Full-Sized Urns: Look for urns with a volume capacity of 220 to 250+ cubic inches (rather than the standard 200 cu. in.) to comfortably accommodate aquamated ashes.
-
Keepsake Urns: Small mini urns designed to hold a small portion of ashes, allowing multiple family members to share a token memory.
-
Cremation Jewelry: Keepsake pendants and bracelets engineered with tiny inner chambers to carry a small piece of your loved one near your heart.
-
Water-Soluble & Scattering Urns: Specially designed for natural ash-scattering ceremonies in rivers, ocean waters off the Georgia coast, or mountain landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is aquamation eco-friendly?
Yes. Water cremation produces zero direct air emissions, uses roughly 10% of the energy of flame cremation, and returns safe, pathogen-free water to municipal water treatment systems.
Can I keep aquamation ashes at home in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia law permits families to bring returned cremated remains home, place them in a columbarium niche, bury them in a cemetery, or scatter them on private property with landowner permission.
What size urn do I need for water cremation ashes?
A standard cremation urn typically holds 200 cubic inches. For aquamation remains, selecting an urn rated for 220+ cubic inches ensures all returned ashes fit comfortably.
Find the Right Memorial Container for Your Loved One
Choosing final arrangements is a tender and personal process. Whether selecting traditional flame cremation or green water cremation, explore Trupoint Memorials’ Collection of Cremation Urns to find a handcrafted, beautifully protective vessel for your loved one.
Disclaimer: Information regarding state statutes, funeral industry regulations, and legal statuses is accurate and up to date as of September 2026. Funeral laws and local facility availabilities are subject to change over time. Readers are encouraged to verify current local regulations with the appropriate state licensing boards or licensed funeral professionals.