Where Can I Scatter Ashes? A State-by-State Legal Guide for Families
Where Can I Scatter Ashes? A State-by-State Legal Guide for Families
Wondering if it's legal to scatter ashes in your state? You're not alone. Many families find comfort in scattering cremated remains—but laws vary widely across the U.S.
This guide explains where it's legal to scatter ashes, state-by-state, and introduces you to a professional, fully managed option through Bonaventure Memorial Services — a service that takes care of every detail so you don’t have to.
Why Ash Scattering Laws Matter
Cremated remains, while not toxic, are still considered human remains and are regulated under state and federal laws. Violating these regulations can result in:
Fines or citations
Disturbance of remains
👉 Explore how Bonaventure works: Ash Scattering Service
Scattering Ashes: General Legal Rules in the U.S.
Private property: Requires landowner permission
Public parks and land: Often require permits or are restricted
National parks: Always require a special use permit, sometimes a fee, and sometimes a death certificate
Ocean scattering: Must occur 3+ nautical miles offshore under EPA guidelines
State-by-State Summary: Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes?
We started with a simplified reference for several top scattering states.
But keep reading to see highlights from all 50 states!
California
Private land: Allowed with permission
State parks & forests: Permit required via California State Parks
The Redwoods are beloved, but be sure to try to find a time when tourist season is low. Privacy is always a matter of supreme importance to ensure a reverent scattering.
Ocean scattering: Legal 3+ nautical miles offshore
More info: California EPA
Florida
Private land: Allowed with owner consent
Public beaches/parks: Permits required
Ocean scattering: Legal under EPA Burial at Sea rules
The biggest thing to consider is that ashes must be scattered at least 3 nautical miles out to sea. There are guides that can take your family for the scattering.
View our Dolphins at Sunset package: Ash Scattering Service at Sea
Texas
Private land: Legal with landowner permission
Lakes, rivers: May require permission from water authorities
Timing is key here for family comfort— ensure that the season is cool enough to appreciate the moment. The Bluebells are famous for a reason; consider scattering around that time.
State parks: Permit required from Texas Parks & Wildlife
New York
Private land: Legal with permission
Public waterways & parks: Often restricted
State/national parks: Check with local agencies
Best Places to Scatter Ashes in All 50 States
A Comprehensive Guide to Meaningful Ash Scattering Locations
Scattering Checklist for Each State: Essential Tips & Legal Forms
Choose a meaningful setting
Coastline, mountains, forest, prairie — pick a place that reflects who they were. Browse our full 50-State Ash Scattering Guide.Know the legal basics
Private land: You’ll need permission from the property owner.
Public land: Most national and state parks require a permit. Check with the managing agency.Ocean scattering must follow EPA rules
At least 3 nautical miles offshore
No non-biodegradable containers or decorations
Must be reported to the EPA within 30 days
→ EPA Ocean Burial Guidelines
→ Submit Online Burial at Sea ReportNational park scattering requires a Special Use Permit
Apply at least 30 days in advance
Each park may have unique restrictions
→ Example: Rocky Mountain NP Guidelines
→ Download NPS Special Use Permit Form (PDF)Honor the land
Use biodegradable urns or no container
Scatter away from trails, water sources, and public gathering areas
Follow Leave No Trace practices
Avoid leaving artificial items, plaques, or markers
Alabama: Gulf Shores & Talladega National Forest
Where to Scatter:
Gulf Shores beaches: wide sandy stretches with gentle tides
Talladega National Forest: shaded rocky ridges and pine valleys
Private rural property: ideal if you have land with personal significance
Legal Considerations:
Private land requires the landowner’s written permission
Public lands may require permits or have local restrictions—check city/county codes
Beaches might be regulated by municipal authorities—plan accordingly
Why It’s Meaningful:
Alabama’s coast whispers of new beginnings with each ebbing wave, while inland forests invite quiet introspection and peace. Scattering someone here weaves their memory into land that’s both nurturing and open.
Alaska: Glacier Bay & Arctic Coastlines
Where to Scatter:
Glacier Bay National Park & Chugach State Park: pristine wilderness
Remote coastal areas around Resurrection Bay or Inside Passage
Inland lakes on state park lands
Legal Considerations:
Public land scattering is typically allowed if done sensitively
Ocean scattering must be 3 nautical miles offshore and free of non-biodegradable materials, per EPA regulations
Always verify with local park offices or Alaska DEC
Why It’s Meaningful:
Alaska is the epitome of solitude and majesty. Here, amid ice and quiet, scattering ashes can feel timeless—an echo of eternity in the vast wild.
Arizona: Canyon Edges & Desert Sunsets
Where to Scatter:
Grand Canyon (South Rim or remote overlooks)
Slide Rock State Park or Red Rock State Park near Sedona
Private desert acreage
Legal Considerations:
National and state parks require advanced permits (apply early)
Private properties need prior owner consent
Avoid state/national monuments without authorization
Why It’s Meaningful:
Arizona’s stark red landscapes, deep canyons, and desert sunsets reflect resilience. Perfect for honoring someone with a bold, grounded spirit.
Arkansas: Ozark Hills & River Trails
Where to Scatter:
Buffalo National River bluffs
Ozark National Forest creeksides
Mount Magazine overlooks
Legal Considerations:
National forest land may require notification to the ranger’s office
River areas and trails may need park coordination or permit
Private land always requires written consent
Why It’s Meaningful:
Here, water and limestone meet in gentle harmony. It’s a place of quiet renewal—ideal for someone who treasured peaceful places and flowing paths.
California: Coastal Cliffs & Redwood Groves
Where to Scatter:
Big Sur’s Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or Pfeiffer Beach
Castle Rock or Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Ocean waters off the northern or southern coasts
Legal Considerations:
State parks require special-event permits
Ocean scattering must occur 3 nautical miles offshore in line with EPA rules
Private land requires landowner approval
Why It’s Meaningful:
From forest cathedrals to cliffside expanses, California offers spectral beauty and dramatic contrasts—ideal for honoring a boundless soul or nature-lover.
Explore More in California:
Check out our California Scattering Guide for location details, permit tips, and ceremony inspiration.
Colorado: Rocky Mountain Majesty
Where to Scatter:
Rocky Mountain National Park (see NPS Scattering Policy)
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Permissions:
Special-use permits required for scattering in national and state parks
Always respect sensitive ecological zones and wildlife habitats
Why It’s Meaningful:
The alpine air, soaring peaks, and quiet wilderness of Colorado offer a powerful blend of courage and peace—perfect for honoring a resilient spirit.
Delaware: Coastal Calm & Green Valleys
Where to Scatter:
Rehoboth Beach — at least 3 miles offshore in open water
Red Clay Valley countryside
Permissions:
Private land requires owner’s written consent
Scattering at beaches and inland waters must comply with local and state regulations
Why It’s Meaningful:
Delaware’s coastal calm meets pastoral greenery, symbolizing gentle transitions and enduring peace.
Florida: Sun, Sea & Everglades Life
Where to Scatter:
Gulf and Atlantic beaches (3 nautical miles offshore, per EPA guidelines)
Everglades National Park (NPS Scattering Info) and wetlands areas
Permissions:
Ocean scattering must occur at least 3 nautical miles offshore
Wetland scattering requires state permission and environmental compliance
Why It’s Meaningful:
Florida’s vibrant Everglades and sparkling sea embrace life’s light and possibilities, perfect for a celebration of vitality and renewal.
Georgia: Mountain Serenity & Swamp Reflection
Where to Scatter:
Blue Ridge Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway (NPS Parkway Info)
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Permissions:
State and national forests require permits or notification
Private land requires owner permission
Why It’s Meaningful:
Georgia’s moss-draped forests and quiet mountain ridges offer serene space for reflection and honoring the spirit’s journey.
Hawaii: Tropical Solitude & Sacred Landscapes
Where to Scatter:
Iao Valley State Park, Maui (Hawaii State Parks)
Offshore ocean waters, at least 3 nautical miles from shore, following EPA regulations
Permissions:
State park permits required for scattering on land
Ocean scattering must comply with federal and EPA guidelines
Why It’s Meaningful:
Hawaii’s tropical seclusion and sacred volcanic landscapes provide a deeply spiritual setting to honor a loved one’s connection to nature.
Idaho: Rugged Peaks & Quiet Lakes
Where to Scatter:
Sawtooth Mountains and Sawtooth Wilderness (Sawtooth NRA Info)
Remote alpine lakes and forest trails
Permissions:
Casual scattering allowed on national forest lands, typically at least 100 yards from trails and water sources
Verify with local ranger stations
Why It’s Meaningful:
Idaho’s rugged mountain peaks and tranquil lakes provide an intimate, peaceful farewell in nature’s quiet grandeur.
Illinois: Scenic Bluffs & Natural Wonder
Where to Scatter:
Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest (NPS Shawnee Forest Info)
Mississippi River blufflines
Permissions:
National forest requires consent for scattering on reserved lands
River bluff areas may require local authority permission
Why It’s Meaningful:
Bluff-top sunsets here provide a solemn brightness, symbolizing hope and remembrance in nature’s embrace.
Indiana: Lakeshore Beauty & Forest Quiet
Where to Scatter:
Indiana Dunes shoreline on Lake Michigan (Indiana Dunes Nat’l Park)
Brown County State Park
Permissions:
Public beaches usually require a local permit for scattering
Forest areas are managed by state park regulations and require permits
Why It’s Meaningful:
The quiet contrast between sand and forest creates a peaceful, reflective setting for honoring a loved one.
Iowa: Rolling Prairies & Hidden Waters
Where to Scatter:
Loess Hills region
Des Moines River bluffs
Permissions:
Private land needs the landowner’s consent
Public lands vary; always check local regulations
Why It’s Meaningful:
Rolling prairie landscapes meeting hidden waterways offer an intimate, natural tribute.
Maine: Coastal Majesty & Granite Cliffs
Where to Scatter:
Acadia National Park (NPS Acadia Scattering Policy)
Downeast Coast
Permissions:
Acadia National Park requires a special-use permit for scattering ashes
Why It’s Meaningful:
Granite cliffs and the rhythmic tides provide a steady, timeless connection to nature’s strength.
Maryland: Chesapeake Bay & Mountain Peace
Where to Scatter:
Chesapeake Bay (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Catoctin Mountain Park (NPS Catoctin Mountain Park)
Permissions:
Bay scattering must comply with federal EPA regulations
National park scattering requires a permit
Why It’s Meaningful:
The meeting of bay waves and woodland calm forms a natural bridge between worlds and memories.
Massachusetts: Cape Cod Coast & Berkshire Hills
Where to Scatter:
Cape Cod, at least 3 nautical miles offshore (EPA Ocean Scattering Guidelines)
Berkshires mountain region
Permissions:
Ocean scattering must follow EPA guidelines
Private land requires owner approval
Why It’s Meaningful:
The layered landscape of coast and mountains offers a rich, memorable farewell.
Michigan: Great Lakes & Inland Lakes Serenity
Where to Scatter:
Lakes of the Upper Peninsula
Lake Superior shoreline (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (NPS)
Permissions:
Inland waters may require local or township approval
EPA ocean scattering rules apply for Great Lakes offshore scatterings
Why It’s Meaningful: The call of loons, vast freshwater horizons, and pine-ringed lakes offer a deeply serene and symbolic farewell.
Minnesota: Mirror Lakes & Quiet Waters
Where to Scatter:
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (USFS)
Private lakes across the state
Permissions:
Special use permits required for Boundary Waters
Scattering on private land requires permission from the owner
Why It’s Meaningful: A paddle through still water and silent forest gives space for reflection, remembrance, and peaceful release.
Mississippi: Coastal Marshes & Historic Parkways
Where to Scatter:
Gulf Coast marshes (beyond 3 nautical miles offshore)
Natchez Trace Parkway (NPS)
Permissions:
Coastal scattering often requires local or state environmental approval
NPS permit required for scattering within the Natchez Trace Parkway
Why It’s Meaningful: The winding rivers and moss-draped trees of Mississippi’s landscapes offer a deeply Southern and soulful sense of continuity.
Missouri: Ozark Renewal & Limestone Beauty
Where to Scatter:
Ozark National Scenic Riverways (NPS)
Permissions:
NPS Special Use Permit required
Why It’s Meaningful: Spring-fed rivers, bluffs, and caves carved by time create a rich, elemental tribute to resilience, renewal, and quiet strength.
Montana: Glaciers & River Bluffs
Where to Scatter:
Glacier National Park (BONAVENTURE Package)
Glacier NP Scattering Policy (NPS)
Missouri River bluffs (private or public access varies)
Permissions:
Glacier National Park requires a permit
Private property requires landowner approval
Why It’s Meaningful: Towering peaks, ancient ice, and winding rivers offer a breathtaking return to nature’s grandest expressions.
Nebraska: Prairie Expanse & River Valleys
Where to Scatter:
Sandhills prairie
Niobrara River Valley
Permissions:
Private land requires permission
Nebraska Game & Parks may require permits for state-managed areas
Why It’s Meaningful: The endless skies and rustling grasses of Nebraska’s wild prairies offer an expansive, open-hearted space to say goodbye.
Nevada: Desert Cliffs & Alpine Lakes
Where to Scatter:
Red Rock Canyon (Red Rock Canyon State Park)
Lake Tahoe (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Permissions:
State park permit required for Red Rock Canyon
EPA regulations apply for ocean or large lake scattering beyond 3 NM offshore
Why It’s Meaningful:
Desert cliffs meeting alpine skies create a stark yet beautiful contrast for remembrance.
New Hampshire: Granite Peaks & Still Waters
Where to Scatter:
White Mountain National Forest (US Forest Service White Mountains)
Lake Winnipesaukee
Permissions:
National Forest permit required
Local permission may be required for lake scattering
Why It’s Meaningful:
Granite peaks guarding serene waters offer a quiet, dignified farewell.
New Jersey: Shorelines & Pine Barrens
Where to Scatter:
Jersey Shore (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Pine Barrens (Pinelands National Reserve)
Permissions:
Ocean scattering must follow EPA regulations
Scattering in Pine Barrens requires park or landowner permission
Why It’s Meaningful:
The contrast between shoreline and woodland symbolizes the layers of life and memory.
New Mexico: Wilderness & Gorge Views
Where to Scatter:
Gila Wilderness (Gila National Forest)
Rio Grande Gorge
Permissions:
Wilderness permit required for Gila
Private land needs owner’s consent
Why It’s Meaningful:
Desert vistas echo with a vast legacy and timeless spirit.
New York: Mountains & River Highlands
Where to Scatter:
Adirondacks (NYS Adirondack Park)
Hudson Highlands
Permissions:
State park permits required for scattering in park lands
Why It’s Meaningful:
Water and mountain landscapes blend majesty and memory in every farewell.
North Carolina: Mountains & Outer Banks
Where to Scatter:
Blue Ridge Parkway (NPS Blue Ridge Parkway)
Outer Banks (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Permissions:
Parkway permits required for scattering
Ocean scattering must follow EPA federal guidelines
Why It’s Meaningful:
Ridge-line horizons and coastal winds guide spirits onward with grace.
North Dakota: Badlands Majesty
Where to Scatter:
Theodore Roosevelt National Park (NPS Theodore Roosevelt NP)
Permissions:
National Park Service permit required
Why It’s Meaningful:
The grandeur of Badlands matches the resilience of life’s journey.
Ohio: Waterfalls & Wooded Gorges
Where to Scatter:
Hocking Hills State Park (Hocking Hills)
Lake Erie shoreline
Permissions:
State park permit required for Hocking Hills
Local permissions often required for shoreline scattering
Why It’s Meaningful:
Waterfalls and wooded gorges offer hidden beauty and calm for reflection.
Oklahoma: Granite Hills & Pine Forests
Where to Scatter:
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (USFWS Wichita Mountains)
Ouachita National Forest (USFS Ouachita NF)
Permissions:
Permits required for scattering in refuge and national forest
Why It’s Meaningful:
Rolling granite hills and pine forests provide a grounded, natural place for farewell.
Oregon: Ancient Trees & Coastal Seas
Where to Scatter:
Oregon Coast (beyond 3 nautical miles offshore)
Crater Lake rim (NPS Crater Lake)
Permissions:
EPA regulations apply for ocean scattering
National Park permits required for Crater Lake
Why It’s Meaningful:
Ancient forests and churning seas embody the timeless cycles of life.
Pennsylvania: Forest Hills & River Corridors
Where to Scatter:
Allegheny National Forest (USFS Allegheny NF)
Delaware River corridor
Permissions:
National forest permit required
Local river authorities may regulate river scattering
Why It’s Meaningful:
Forested hills and flowing rivers mirror life’s rhythms and transitions.
Rhode Island: Bays & Island Shores
Where to Scatter:
Narragansett Bay (3 nautical miles offshore)
Block Island beaches
Permissions:
Ocean scattering follows EPA regulations
Local and island authority permissions may apply
Why It’s Meaningful:
Sea breezes and rich maritime history honor lasting love and memory.
South Carolina: Marshes & Mountain Breezes
Where to Scatter:
Kiawah Island marshes
Blue Ridge foothills
Permissions:
County or state permits needed
Park permissions required
Why It’s Meaningful:
Marshland whispers and mountain breezes provide peaceful places of remembrance.
South Dakota: Badlands & Sacred Granite
Where to Scatter:
Badlands National Park (NPS Badlands)
Black Hills
Permissions:
National Park Service permit required
Why It’s Meaningful:
Sculpted cliffs and sacred granite formations stand as symbols of endurance.
Tennessee: Mountains & River Bluffs
Where to Scatter:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NPS Great Smoky Mountains)
Tennessee River bluffs
Permissions:
National Park permit required
Local authority permits may be needed for river areas
Why It’s Meaningful:
Misty mountain ridges and flowing rivers echo the legacy of life in motion.
Texas: Gulf Coast & Desert Wilderness
Where to Scatter:
Gulf Coast (3 nautical miles offshore)
Big Bend National Park (NPS Big Bend)
Permissions:
Ocean scattering per EPA rules
National Park permits required
Why It’s Meaningful:
Vast skies and desert canyons evoke spirits as big as Texas itself.
Utah: Arches & Hoodoo Landscapes
Where to Scatter:
Arches National Park (NPS Arches)
Bryce Canyon rim
Permissions:
National Park permit required
Some scenic drive shoulders may allow limited scattering
Why It’s Meaningful:
Ancient stone arches and hoodoos stand as nature’s own lasting monuments.
Vermont: Emerald Mountains & Quiet Lakes
Where to Scatter:
Lake Champlain shoreline
Green Mountain National Forest (USFS Green Mountain NF)
Permissions:
Forest permit required
Local regulations apply for shoreline scattering
Why It’s Meaningful:
Emerald forests and soft waters reflect gentle heartbeats of remembrance.
Virginia: Blue Ridges & Chesapeake Bay
Where to Scatter:
Shenandoah National Park (NPS Shenandoah)
Chesapeake Bay (3 nautical miles offshore required for legal ocean scattering)
Permissions:
National Park permit required for Shenandoah
EPA general permit applies for ocean scattering service
Why It’s Meaningful: Blue Ridge vistas and the peaceful expanse of the bay offer serene, grounding places to honor a life well lived.
Washington: Salish Seas & Ancient Rainforests
Where to Scatter:
Puget Sound Bioluminescence (beyond 3 nautical miles offshore)
Olympic National Park (NPS Olympic)
Permissions:
EPA regulations apply for ocean scattering
NPS permit required for national park
Why It’s Meaningful: The mystical Salish Sea and mist-draped forests create a soulful, tranquil setting for farewell rituals rooted in nature.
West Virginia: Gorge Views & Forest Canopies
Where to Scatter:
New River Gorge National Park (NPS New River Gorge)
Monongahela National Forest (USFS)
Permissions:
USFS Special Use Permit required for national forest
Why It’s Meaningful: Towering cliffs and old-growth forests create a rock-solid tribute to those who lived deeply and loved the outdoors.
Wisconsin: Lake Superior Islands & Moraine Forests
Where to Scatter:
Apostle Islands, Lake Superior (at least 3 nautical miles offshore)
Kettle Moraine State Forest
Permissions:
EPA compliance required for ocean scattering
Wisconsin DNR approval for forest sites
Why It’s Meaningful: Cold lake winds and glacial ridges offer a naturally resonant space for remembrance in Wisconsin’s wild heart.
Wyoming: Earth’s Raw Beauty & Monumental Peaks
Where to Scatter:
Permissions:
Yellowstone Permit Info (NPS)
Grand Teton Permit Info (NPS)
Why It’s Meaningful: Geysers and jagged peaks echo the forces of nature—representing resilience, transformation, and an enduring legacy.
