Scattering Your Loved One’s Ashes: What You Need to Know

After you loved one’s cremation services in Dickson, TN., you may want to scatter their ashes. While this is a lovely idea and there are so many wonderful places you can do this, it is important to know there are some places where scattering ashes is illegal. We are going to cover where these places are and when you might need to get permission.

Before we talk about where to scatter your loved one’s ashes, let’s first talk about how you can scatter them. There are two main ways. These include:

Casting – This is what most people think of when they imagine scattering ashes. Casting is the act of scattering the ashes into the air.

Trenching – With this option, the ashes are buried in the ground. This can be done by burying the entire container (needs to be biodegradable) that the ashes are in or pouring the ashes into the ground directly.

If you would like to scatter your loved one’s ashes on private property, you must get permission from the landowner first. If the owner denies permission, you must respect that. If you go ahead and try to scatter the ashes anyway, you can be fined and possible serve jail time.

On most public land you will have no issues with scattering ashes. If you choose to do so in a national park, there are a few things to keep in mind.’

You should talk to the park ranger first as a permit is usually required

You should scatter the ashes away from trails or other developed areas such as campsites

Avoid any environmentally or archeologically sensitive areas

While it is allowed to scatter ashes at sea, there are several things to be mindful of.

The remains must be placed in the ocean at least 3 nautical miles from any land

Only biodegradable containers can be used

If you want to also release flowers, you are allowed as long as they decompose easily

You must report the sea burial to the EPA within 30 days

While a permit isn’t necessary, if you wish to spread pet remains, you will need a permit.

You may or may not be able to scatter ashes at a graveyard. This depends on first, if it’s private or public land. Also, even if it’s public land, there may be certain city or county regulations you need to follow. It’s always best to call and ask.

Scattering your loved one’s ashes can be a beautiful way to say goodbye and help with your healing process. While there are a number of places you may find to do this, knowing the laws and regulations will help you perform this act in a lawful way.

If you have any questions after your loved one’s cremation services in Dickson, TN., call Cremation Society of Tennessee and let their compassionate staff help you with your ash scattering ceremony.

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