03/23/2026
Ash scattering ceremonies give families a meaningful way to honor their loved ones after cremation. Families choose this way of remembrance for various reasons, including environmental consciousness, a desire for personalization, and emotional connections to specific locations.
When selecting a scattering location, following specific guidelines, such as obtaining permission when scattering on private property or in public parks, is essential. Please read our guide below on how to get started.
Consider scattering your loved one’s ashes somewhere that reminds you of them or that they liked to visit. For the most part, you can scatter ashes in places that aren’t private property and on your own property. But you may need a permit, and there are certain rules for different areas, so we’ll go over a few general guidelines:
If someone else owns the land, you need written permission to scatter the ashes there.
Check with your local government before scattering ashes in public parks or other public locations.
Most U.S. National Parks allow you to scatter ashes, but you need a permit first.
You can ask permission to scatter ashes in places such as sports arenas and amusement parks, but they often decline these requests.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allows ash scatterings in oceans from a plane or boat. However, you must be at least three nautical miles from the shore and need to contact the EPA within 30 days.
