Scattering Cremated Remains
River Safety Warning
The City of Saskatoon is advising residents to stay away from the South Saskatchewan River due to unusually high river flow rates creating hazardous conditions.
Residents are strongly warned against all recreational activities on the river, including boating, paddling, swimming, floating, fishing from the shoreline and other water-based activities. The public is also advised to avoid approaching the river's edge, as fast-moving water, unstable banks and submerged hazards can create dangerous situations.
Pet owners are urged to keep their animals away from the river and riverbanks. Even well-behaved pets can be swept away by strong currents or encounter unstable shoreline conditions. Residents should keep pets leashed and avoid allowing them access to the water's edge.
The City will continue to closely monitor river conditions and flow rates. Updates and additional information will be posted on the City of Saskatoon Service Alerts webpage: saskatoon.ca/servicealerts
The scattering of cremated remains within the boundaries of the City of Saskatoon, outside of a cemetery, is permitted by the City subject to these guidelines and any applicable provincial and federal legislation.
When scattering cremated remains in these locations, please consider the impact to the public and the environment. The following guidelines apply:
- Scattering is only permitted in the South Saskatchewan River and only from May 1 to October 31.
- Scattering is not permitted within 200 metres upstream of a water intake.
- Scattering must not be done close to high public activity areas.
- The City does not condone entering the river; individuals do so at their own risk.
- If vessels and ceremonial items are to be used, they must be biodegradable (i.e. real flowers).
- Remains must be completely pulverized and no bone fragments or remnants recognizable as human remains may be visible.
- Only a small, ceremonial amount of remains may be scattered.
- Permanent forms of memorialization must be completed through a cemetery.
- Individuals are responsible for complying with all applicable federal or provincial requirements when scattering cremated remains.
Where cremated remains are scattered following these guidelines, no permission is required. These guidelines do not replace any requirements that may be established by federal or provincial laws.