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Friday, May 8, 2026

Are funeral pyres legal in Colorado?

Cassis Tingley, The Colorado Sun
yes

Colorado allows open-air cremations, though organizations or individuals who wish to perform them must obtain a burn permit from the state Air Pollution Control Division. 

The only organization in the state with an active permit for open-air cremation is the Crestone End of Life Project, a community group that says it aids in “planning meaningful memorial ceremonies and rituals.” 

To be eligible for an open-air cremation ceremony through the group, the deceased must have lived in Saguache County for at least 90 days and have registered with the group prior to their death. The group has conducted 94 cremations at its permanent pyre site since its founding in 2007, including three in 2026, and informs the local fire department before pyres are held. 

The Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes had an open-air cremation permit in 2025 but did not conduct any cremations. 

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