Glossary
Scattering
Scattering is the dispersal of cremated remains in a chosen place, such as a garden, the sea, or private land. Where you may scatter is governed by state and local rules and by property owners' permission, so families usually check before planning.
Common options include a cemetery scattering garden, private land with the owner's consent, or scattering at sea, which has specific federal distance and reporting requirements.
Public lands and waters often have their own rules, and some families divide remains so they can both scatter and keep a portion. Confirming the rules for a specific location avoids problems later.
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Common questions
- Can I scatter ashes anywhere?
- Not freely. Scattering is governed by state and local rules and by property owners' permission. Private land needs the owner's consent, public lands and waters often have their own rules, and scattering at sea has specific federal distance and reporting requirements.
- Do I need a permit to scatter ashes?
- It depends on the location. Some public parks and waters require permits or advance notice, and scattering at sea must follow federal rules. Confirming the requirements for a specific place before you go avoids problems later.
- Can I scatter some ashes and keep the rest?
- Yes. Many families divide remains so they can scatter a portion and keep some in an urn or keepsake. What you may do is subject to local rules, but dividing remains is common and widely permitted.
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