Quick answer
The Memorial Market lists ash-scattering services, mostly boat and plane scatterings on the California coast, plus memorial cruises and a few destination ceremonies. At sea, federal law requires placing ashes at least three nautical miles from land, with a report to the EPA within 30 days. On land, rules depend on the state and the landowner; national parks need permission under 36 C.F.R. 2.62, and national forests differ.
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Scattering is often the moment a family remembers most, so it helps to know the rules before choosing a place. A licensed captain or pilot handles the logistics for the services below; for a private ceremony, the state guides linked at the bottom of this page cover each state’s laws and well-known places.
The service list below comes from the live catalog.
Ash-scattering services available now
Boat, plane and other scattering services from the live catalog. Each listing says where it departs or takes place.
At sea: the three-mile rule
Under the EPA’s general permit for burial at sea, cremated remains may be placed in ocean waters at least three nautical miles from land, and the EPA must be notified within 30 days. Bays and rivers inland of that line are not covered by the federal permit. California adds its own rules for scattering by boat or plane.
National parks and forests
National parks prohibit scattering unless the park issues a permit or publishes conditions that allow it. Forest policies vary by forest: Coconino National Forest in Arizona allows personal scattering, while Prescott National Forest says it is not authorized.
Private land and state rules
Most states let you scatter on your own land, and on someone else’s with permission. A few, like California, require written permission. The state guides below explain each state’s rules with sources.
Frequently asked questions
How far out must ashes be scattered at sea?
At least three nautical miles from land under the EPA’s general permit, with a report to the EPA within 30 days.
Sources: U.S. EPA, Burial at Sea · 40 C.F.R. 229.1, burial at sea general permit
Can we scatter ashes in a national park?
Only with permission. National Park Service rules prohibit scattering unless the park issues a permit or publishes conditions allowing it; each park sets its own process.
Are national forests different?
Yes, and they differ from each other. Coconino National Forest allows personal scattering without markers, while Prescott National Forest says scattering is not authorized.
Sources: Coconino National Forest FAQs (USFS) · Prescott National Forest, Contact Us (USFS)
What does California require for boat scattering?
California requires boat scattering to be at least 500 yards from shore and not from a bridge or pier, with a filing with the county within 10 days.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the carrier, landowner or managing agency.