Can I scatter ashes on the beach?

There are no legal requirements except for the fact that you need permission before spreading cremated remains on to a privately-owned stretch of waters. You don’t need a license to spread ashes in tidal coastal waters or upon a beach.

Where is it legal to scatter ashes in California?

cemetery scattering garden
By contrast, California’s laws state that ashes may only be disposed of by scattering in a cemetery scattering garden, or scattering where there is no local prohibition and with written permission of the property owner or governing agency.

Do you need a permit to scatter ashes in California?

All California burials, whether a full body land burial, full body sea burial, or a scattering of ashes require a permit issued from the County. An original or certified death certificate or transit permit is required in order to obtain the California permit.

Do cremated ashes float?

The ashes can simply be poured into the hole or placed in a biodegradable urn for burial. Scattering by Water – The remains are scattered onto a body of water from the shore, a dock or a boat. These will float on top of the water while the ashes sink below the surface.

Where can I scatter ashes in California?

Bodega Bay, Point Reyes, Half Moon Bay, Pigeon Point are also popular ash scattering locations. Santa Cruz, Capitola, Monterey, Carmel, and the California Central Coast provide very beautiful areas for a burial at sea. We can also scatter cremated remains via plane over The Majestic California Redwood Forest .

What are the laws on scattering ashes?

Most states do not have any laws prohibiting this, but federal law does prohibit dropping any objects that might injure people or harm property. Cremains themselves are not considered hazardous material, but for obvious safety reasons you should remove the ashes from their container before scattering them by air.

Is it legal to spread cremated ashes?

Laws on cremation and the preservation of ashes vary. In Italy , it is legal to spread ashes, according to the will of the deceased, with authorization and in areas that local authorities have approved for the purpose. Cremation has become increasingly popular in Italy, where 21 percent of the deceased in 2015 had opted for it.

Can You Spread Your Ashes anywhere?

You are allowed to spread ashes on your own private property. You are also allowed to keep cremated ashes in an urn or container on your own property or in your home. If you are not sure if an area of land is private or public, check with your town hall first or consult a town map.