Ash Scattering Service
For families who have decided on cremation for a loved one, the next step is to decide what to do with the remains. Options include keeping the ashes at home, placing them in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scattering them in a meaningful location.
Cremation gives families more time to decide where and how to scatter the ashes. Although there isn't an official agency regulating this process, there are some essential guidelines to keep in mind:
- When planning to scatter ashes on private property, it's wise to get written permission from the owner.
- Public parks typically require a scattering permit.
- There are no regulations for scattering ashes on uncontrolled public lands, so use your own judgment.
- Avoid scattering ashes within 100 yards of public roads or trails.
- Dispose of the cremation container separately and in an environmentally-safe manner.
- Scattering ashes in inland waters falls under the Clean Water Act, so you need a permit from the relevant waterway authority.
- At sea, ashes must be scattered at least three nautical miles from the coast.
- Any flowers or wreaths used in a sea ash scattering ceremony must be biodegradable. Avoid using plastic flowers or non-decomposable items.
- The Environmental Protection Agency requires written notification within 30 days after a sea ash scattering.
