Ash Scattering Ceremonies

An ash scattering ceremony is a beautiful way for friends and family to gather and say goodbye to a loved one. Many families find the act of spreading ashes is a meaningful way to find closure and release.

If you would like to plan an ash scattering ceremony, there are many decisions to be made and certain steps that should be followed. First and foremost, before you can begin planning an ash scattering ceremony, you need to decide upon a location. This is a very important step because depending on the location, there may be certain regulations to follow or permits to obtain.

Types of Ash Scattering Services

There are many different ways to scatter a loved one’s ashes. Each type of ceremony allows family and friends to honor their loved one, in distinctly unique ways. With a countless number of ceremonies, we’ve chosen to focus our attention on the three most popular types of ash scattering ceremonies.

Casting Ceremony

If you ask someone to describe an ash scattering ceremony, most will unknowingly allude to a casting ceremony. Casting is when the cremated remains are thrown into the wind and dispersed across an area of land or water. Many find this ceremony has a very symbolic feeling as you are letting go. When you spread the ashes, you are releasing your loved one to freely explore the special place you have chosen for your ceremony. If you plan to hold this type of ceremony, make sure to determine wind direction and release the ashes downwind.

Water Ceremony

Another popular way to spread ashes is with a water ceremony. For this type of ceremony, the cremated remains are spread across a body of water like a lake, river, pond or the ocean. In most cases, the remains are transferred to a water-soluble urn which is then placed in the water. After a few minutes, the urn begins to dissolve and slowly release the ashes. Please keep in mind, there are often regulations to follow and permits to obtain before holding a water ceremony. For detailed information, please contact your local agencies for assistance.

Raking Ceremony

Scattering gardens are slowly becoming more and more popular across North America. Many cemeteries and funeral homes now have scattering gardens where families can spread their ashes alongside other members of the community. For this type of ceremony, the ashes are spread across the ground or a garden. The remains are then gently raked through the soil to disperse them. As the remains are being raked, guests can take turns sharing memories of the deceased.

Where Can I Scatter Ashes?

If you would like to hold an ash scattering ceremony, we recommend speaking with a local agency or the municipality to make sure you are not violating any local bylaws by scattering remains. Although there is no organization responsible for overseeing or policing ash scattering ceremonies, we cannot stress the importance of obtaining proper permission and if necessary, permits before your ash scattering ceremony takes place. With that being said, there is some general information to be made aware of.

Obtain Written Permission Before

Scattering Ashes on Private Property

If you wish to scatter ashes on private property that you own, you are able to do so without issue. However, if someone else owns the property you wish to scatter ashes on, you must obtain written permission before doing so.

Spreading Ashes in Public Spaces

If you plan to scatter ashes in a public space, make sure to check with your local municipality to obtain a scattering permit. For uncontrolled public lands, there are usually no regulations but use your best judgment. If possible, try to scatter the ashes at least 100 yards from any public roads or trails.

Scattering Ashes in Waterways

Depending on the body of water, you may or may not be allowed to legally scatter ashes there. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), remains can be spread in the ocean as long as they are released from plane or boat at least three nautical miles from shore. After scattering remains, you must contact the EPA within 30 days. 

If you wish to scatter remains over inland bodies of water, you will need to speak to the local agency or municipality that oversees the area. Many states prohibit this type of scattering from the shoreline and some prohibit the act altogether. 

Ash Scattering Ceremony Ideas

If you’re looking for a more personalized type of ash scattering ceremony, there are several unique ways to spread ashes. Companies across the United States are developing new and exciting technologies to help honor a loved one’s spirit. Take a look below at some new and interesting things being done with ashes.

*DISCLAIMER

Please note that the following are just ideas for unique ways to spread ashes. If any of these ceremonies require you to purchase a specialty urn or need additional assistance planning, please understand that these are simply ideas and suggestions. Our funeral home may or may not have the urn or ability to assist you with your ash scattering ceremony.

Fireworks Celebration

Fireworks have long been an important part of certain celebrations. There are now several companies that can add your loved one’s ashes into fireworks. What better way to conclude a memorial service or celebration of life with big and bright fireworks celebration.

One Last Shot

One company based out of Alabama has created a new way to pay tribute to your loved one. Holy Smoke LLC. offers ammunition for pistols, rifles, and shotguns that contain cremated remains. If your loved one was an avid hunter, police officer, or member of the military, this is a unique tribute to pay your respects to a loved one.

A Permanent Reminder

Keep a part of your loved one with you forever by getting a permanent reminder. Several tattoo artists are now finding ways to mix your loved one’s ashes into the ink for a tattoo. Create a truly one-of-a-kind tribute by getting a memorial tattoo to memorialize your loved one.