A Guide to Spreading Ashes
Navigate the legal and practical aspects of scattering cremated remains with confidence. This comprehensive guide covers federal regulations, state-by-state laws, and best practices to help you honor your loved one’s final wishes respectfully and legally.
State-by-State Ash Scattering Laws
Regulations for scattering cremated remains vary significantly by state. Use this comprehensive guide to understand the specific requirements in your location.
Quick Reference: Most states follow these general principles:
● Use common sense when selecting scattering locations
● Obtain permission from private property owners
● Avoid areas where ashes would be visible or disturbing to others
● Check with local municipalities for additional restrictions
Alabama
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Alaska
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Arizona
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense and refrain from scattering ashes where they would be obvious to others. Obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Arkansas
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations. Written permission from private landowners is required prior to scattering.
California
California has specific regulations for ash scattering:
● May scatter at religious structures, cemetery scattering gardens, or areas without local prohibition
● Written permission required from private property owners or governing agencies
● Scattered ashes must not be visible to the public
● Must be 500 yards from shore when scattering at sea
● May not scatter in lakes or streams
Colorado
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense and refrain from scattering ashes where they would be obvious to others. Obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Delaware
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Connecticut
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners. The cremation permit must state the intended destinations of the remains.
Florida
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Georgia
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Hawaii
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Idaho
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Illinois
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Indiana
State law requires ashes be scattered in designated scattering areas or on the property of a consenting owner. A form documenting the disposition must be filed with the county recorder within 10 days. Many people use their best judgment regarding municipal regulations.
Iowa
State law prohibits scattering on both public and private property without explicit permission.
Kansas
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Louisiana
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Maine
May scatter ashes on your own private property or on the property of a consenting owner. Officially should request permission before scattering on federal land, though many people use their best judgment.
Kentucky
Ashes may be scattered in designated scattering areas or on private property of a consenting owner. While technically prohibited on public lands, this law was written for funeral service providers and has no enforcement provisions for private individuals.
Maryland
May scatter ashes on your own private property or on the property of a consenting owner. Officially should request permission before scattering on federal land, though many people use their best judgment.
Massachusetts
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Michigan
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Minnesota
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Mississippi
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Missouri
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Montana
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Nebraska
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Nevada
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
New Hampshire
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
New Jersey
May scatter ashes on your own private property or on the property of a consenting owner. Officially should request permission before scattering on federal land, though many people use their best judgment.
New Mexico
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
New York
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
North Carolina
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
North Dakota
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Ohio
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Oklahoma
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Oregon
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Pennsylvania
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Rhode Island
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
South Carolina
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
South Dakota
Must file a statement with the registrar of births and deaths if scattering on private property or over a public waterway. Written permission from private landowners is required prior to scattering.
Tennessee
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Texas
No strict state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Utah
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Vermont
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Virginia
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Washington
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
West Virginia
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Wisconsin
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Wyoming
No state laws regulate ash scattering. Use common sense in choosing locations and obtain permission from private landowners before scattering.
Important Note About Local Regulations
Even in states without specific laws, local municipalities may have their own regulations. Cities, towns, and counties can establish rules about ash scattering within their jurisdictions. Always check with local authorities before scattering ashes in:
- Public parks
- Beaches and shorelines
- National or state parks
- Municipal properties
- Protected natural areas
When in doubt, contact the local parks department, city hall, or county clerk’s office for guidance.
Best Practices for Scattering Ashes
Regardless of location, follow these guidelines to ensure a respectful, legal ceremony:
Respect Private Property
Always obtain written permission from property owners before scattering ashes on private land.
Use Discretion
Choose locations where scattered ashes won’t be visible or disturbing to others. Avoid high-traffic areas during busy times.
Consider the Environment
Avoid scattering in water sources used for drinking water.
Spreading Ashes at Sea: Federal Law Requirements
Federal law regulates the scattering of cremated remains in ocean waters. Before planning a sea burial, familiarize yourself with these essential requirements:
Distance from shore
You must be at least 3 nautical miles from the shore before scattering ashes at sea. Water depth is not regulated—only the distance from land matters.
Decomposable materials only
Only biodegradable items may be scattered on the water. This includes:
- Decomposable scattering urns
- Flower wreaths and petals
- Natural fabrics and materials
Non-biodegradable containers, plastics, and synthetic materials are prohibited.
EPA notification requirement
Within 30 days of scattering ashes at sea, you must notify the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is a simple administrative requirement to document the burial.
For more information:
Document Your Scattering Journey with Reminisce
Once you’ve scattered ashes at meaningful locations, preserve those sacred places with Reminisce. Our mini urns and digital mapping platform allow you to:
● Mark exact GPS coordinates of each scattering site
● Upload photographs of the locations
● Write descriptions explaining the significance of each place
● Share the memorial with family members
● Create a lasting legacy for future generations