When I was 6 my grandmother passed away, we had a sad but happy celebration. One of her dying wishes was that her ashes be spread “over the winds of the grand canyon”. So that’s what my family did. We never looked into the legality of it so that’s what I’m answering today for you. Is it illegal to spread ashes?
No, it’s not illegal to spread ashes. However, each state and national park may have their own rules and regulations about where ashes can be spread. So it’s important to do your research and get any necessary permits before spreading ashes in a public place.
Now, that’s not all that can be covered over this topic. Keep reading for some more information.
| State | Laws |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Ashes can be scattered on private property with the owner’s consent and in public places like rivers, lakes, and oceans |
| Alaska | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Arizona | It is illegal to scatter ashes in national parks, but they can be spread on private property with owner’s consent or other public lands. |
| Arkansas | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| California | Ashes can only be scattered at sea with a permit from the EPA or at designated scattering gardens. |
| Colorado | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard |
| Connecticut | Ashes can be scattered on private property with owner’s consent and in public places like rivers, lakes, and oceans |
| Delaware | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Florida | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Georgia | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Hawaii | It is illegal to scatter ashes in national parks, but they can be spread on private property with owner’s consent or other public lands. |
| Idaho | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Illinois | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Indiana | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Iowa | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Kansas | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Kentucky | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Louisiana | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Maine | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Maryland | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Massachusetts | Ashes can be scattered on private property with owner’s consent and in public places like rivers, lakes, and oceans. |
| Michigan | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Minnesota | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Mississippi | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Missouri | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Montana | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Nebraska | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Nevada | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| New Hampshire | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| New Jersey | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| New Mexico | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| New York | It is illegal to scatter ashes in state parks, but they can be spread on private property with owner’s consent or other public lands. |
| North Carolina | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| North Dakota | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Ohio | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Oklahoma | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Oregon | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Pennsylvania | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Rhode Island | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| South Carolina | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| South Dakota | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Tennessee | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Texas | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Utah | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Vermont | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Virginia | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Washington | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| West Virginia | No laws specifically addressing spreading of ashes, but common courtesy is recommended when scattering on private or public land. |
| Wisconsin | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
| Wyoming | Ashes can be scattered on both private and public land as long as it is not causing a nuisance or hazard. |
It is always important to check with local authorities before scattering ashes in any location, as some areas may have specific regulations in place. In general, common courtesy is recommended when spreading ashes on private or public land. It is also important to ensure that the scattering of ashes is not causing any kind of nuisance or hazard.
So, now that you’ve read a little into the laws surrounding spreading your loved ones ashes. Where are some the most common legal and beautiful places to spread them?
1. The Ocean: This is a popular choice for those who love the water or have strong connections to it. It is important to check with local authorities first as some beaches may have restrictions.
2. A Park or Garden: Many parks and gardens have designated areas for spreading ashes.
3. A Mountain or Wilderness Area: This is a great option for nature lovers or those who want to have their ashes become part of the earth.
4. A Cemetery: Some cemeteries allow for ashes to be scattered or buried in designated areas.
5. A Favorite Spot: This could be a favorite vacation spot, a childhood home, or anywhere with sentimental value.
6. From the Air: Spreading ashes from an airplane is allowed in most places but it is important to check with both local and federal authorities first as there may be regulations and permits needed.
7. At Home: Some choose to keep their loved ones close by spreading their ashes in the backyard or in an indoor memorial garden.
8. At Sea: Similar to spreading ashes in the ocean, it is important to check with local authorities as there may be designated areas or permits required.
9. In a Lake or River: As with oceans and seas, it is important to check with local authorities for any restrictions.
10. With Other Family Members: Some families choose to have their ashes spread together either at the same time or during future gatherings and memorials. This is a great way to keep loved ones connected even after passing.
There is no one right way to spread the ashes of a loved one. It is important to consider any laws and regulations in the chosen location and to always show courtesy and respect for the environment and others. Ultimately, it is up to individual preference and what will bring peace and closure for those grieving.
The information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.