Where is Scattering of Ashes Allowed Legally?

Many people who choose cremation services near Chesterfield, VA, want either some or all of their ashes scattered in a beloved place. Scattering your loved one’s ashes can provide significant and meaningful closure for close family and friends. It can serve as a small and intimate memorial gathering, where friends and family can come together and reminisce as they return their loved one to a special place. It’s important to know, however, that not everywhere allows for the scattering of ashes. Here is a small guide on where scattering of ashes is generally allowed.

Private Property. First of all, it is completely legal to scatter ashes anywhere on property that you own. You may want to consider that if you ever sell that property, your loved one’s remains will stay where they were spread. The private property of a family member or friend is also perfectly acceptable, so long as you have received their permission. If you wish to scatter on some other private property, such as at a college campus or sports stadium, you must obtain permission from them before scattering ashes there. It’s wise to get it in writing, as well. Cemeteries are another place that might be considered private property, and it’s important to get permission before scattering ashes there as well.

Publicly Owned Land and National Parks. If you want to scatter ashes at a place that is owned either by the city, county, or state, you must obtain permission, particularly for a popular or widely populated area such as a park or beach. If you know of an area that is publicly owned but rarely used by the public, like in a rural or woods setting, you are likely in the clear. Most national parks also allow scattering of ashes, but it’s wise to check with a park ranger before you go ahead and scatter. There are some areas that may expressly prohibit the scattering of ashes, and you’ll want to find out beforehand if the location you have in mind is one of these.

The Ocean, Lakes, and Other Bodies of Water. It is legal to scatter ashes in the ocean, but you should be at least three nautical miles away from any shoreline. If you follow that guideline, you should be fine. When it comes to lakes, rivers, and ponds, you’ll need to obtain permission or permits from the local government. In any case, you must make sure to only use biodegradable materials if you are spreading anything else with the ashes, such as flowers.

With these guidelines, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find out where the scattering of ashes is acceptable. When your loved one has requested cremation services near Chesterfield, VA, see if they had any preferences of where they wanted some of their ashes scattered. At Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service, we can give you more information on scattering ashes and burial at sea. Please give us a call anytime you’re in immediate need, or email us to get more information.