Cremated Remains Scattering Services

For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the cremated remains in a meaningful place.

Scattering Cremated Remains

Cremation provides families with more time to arrange where and how to scatter the cremated remains. While there is no policing agency overseeing scattering, there are some basics you should know:
  • If you plan on scattering cremated remains on private property, it's smart to receive written permission from the owner.
  • Public parks require that you obtain a scattering permit.
  • There are no regulations regarding scattering cremated remains on uncontrolled public lands; you need to use your own judgment.
  • You should not scatter cremated remains within 100 yards of public roads or trails.
  • The cremation container must be disposed of separately and in an environmentally-safe manner.
  • Scattering cremated remains in inland waters is governed by the Clean Water Act so it's important to obtain a permit from the agency that oversees waterways.
  • Scattering of cremated remains at sea must be done at a minimum of three nautical miles from the coastline.
  • Any flowers or wreaths used in the scattering ceremony held at sea must decompose. No plastic flowers or other non-decomposable items should be left behind.
  • For scattering cremated remains at sea, the Environmental Protection Agency requires that you notify the regional office in writing within 30 days after the event.

    How to Spread Cremated Remains

    Cremated remains bear little resemblance to ashes; they look and behave a lot like small-grained gravel. However, there are some fine-grains mixed in so be sure to check the wind direction before scattering into the air or a body of water.

    The technique of trenching is another option. Dig a small trench in the location of your choice, place the remains (or a biodegradable urn containing the cremated remains) within, and cover with soil.

    Raking is another technique used. Pour the remains on the surface of the soil and use a rake to mix the cremated remains.

    You may also wish to check out our selection of scattering urns prior to making plans for your ceremony. Should you need advice on how to design a meaningful ceremony, feel free to call us.

    Considerations When Spreading Cremated Remains

    Many families choose to scatter their loved one’s cremated remains at a location that reminds them of their loved one or at a place that their loved one enjoyed going to. Parks, beaches, and waterways are common locations for scattering cremated remains. 

    

    Choose a spot that is special to your loved one, a place where you bonded with your loved one, or somewhere that just reminds you of him or her. It is not a decision that should be taken lightly. However, there are laws and regulations on where you can scatter cremated remains. Before finalizing a spot, make sure you are allowed to scatter cremated remains at that spot. Below, we provide some general guidelines on where you cannot spread your loved one’s cremated remains, and some other things you need to keep in mind. 

    

    As a first step, with the help from local agencies we will outline the exact bi-laws for cremated remains scattering in your specific location.

    

    Get Permission for Scattering on Private Property

    For private property that you own, you are able to scatter without permission or without any issue. For property owned by other individuals or parties, you must obtain permission before scattering. To avoid any legal trouble, get signed and dated written permission from the property owner before scattering. 

    Sports Venues & Amusement Parks

    Sports venues and amusement parks have thousands of visitors every year, but people need to remember that these locations are not public spaces. You can ask for permission to scatter cremated remains at these venues but often these requests are declined. If you scatter without permission, these venues will likely call the police and the cremated remains will be removed.

    Public Spaces

    For some public places such as local parks, several cities require you to obtain a scattering permit. For uncontrolled public lands, often there are no regulations or restrictions, but we have to use our best judgement. Under any situation, do not spread cremated remains within 100 yards of any public trails or roads.

    Cremated Remains in National Parks

    National parks are beautiful and make for amazing locations to scatter cremated remains. Many National Parks grant permission to have ceremonies for scattering cremated remains, but often there are stipulations. Make sure you speak with the chief park ranger, get written permission, and clearly understand any specific rules. Similar to scattering cremated remains in public spaces, stay away from trails or developed areas that receive a lot of regular foot traffic.

    Scattering Cremated Remains in Waterways

    According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), scattering cremated remains at sea or over oceans is permitted but there are a couple of rules. The scattering must occur from boat or plane at least 3 nautical miles from the coastline. Furthermore, after finishing the scattering you must notify the EPA within 30 days.

    

    The scattering of cremated remains over inland waters such as rivers, ponds, and lakes is not subject to the federal regulations we discussed above. We will work with your local environmental agency, mortuary board, or city office to learn about the specific laws that apply to each body of water.

    

    Being Considerate of Others & the Community

    Even if you are legally allowed to scatter cremated remains in a spot, please be mindful and considerate of others. Avoid any location that receives heavy foot traffic. Think of your own family. You would not want to be out walking with your family only to discover someone’s cremated remains. Spread the cremated remains in a place where they can lie and rest in peace.