Ash Scattering Services

Scattering Cremation Ashes

For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place.


Many families choose to hold cremation ash scattering ceremonies for their deceased loved ones. Scattering the cremation ashes of a loved one allows families to pay tribute to the individual in places that were special to them.

How to Scatter Ashes

Cremated remains bear little resemblance to ashes; they look and behave a lot like small-grained gravel. However, there are some fine-grains mixed in so be sure to check the wind direction before scattering into the air or a body of water.

The technique of trenching is another option. Dig a small trench in the location of your choice, place the remains (or a biodegradable urn containing the ashes) within, and cover with soil.

Raking is another technique used. Pour the remains on the surface of the soil and use a rake to mix the ashes.

You may also wish to check out our selection of scattering urns prior to making plans for your ceremony. Should you need advice on how to design a meaningful ceremony, feel free to call us.
Cremation FAQ

6 Types of Ash Scattering Ceremonies


Casting Ceremony 

A casting ceremony is a way of scattering ashes where the remains are tossed into the wind. This is what most people commonly envision when they think of an ash scattering ceremony. Many people prefer this kind of service because they feel it helps symbolize the freeing or letting go of their loved one’s spirit.


Raking Ceremony

A raking ceremony is another popular type of ash scattering service. For this type of ceremony, the ashes are spread out across a section of soil typically in a garden. Family members often take turns gently raking the cremated remains into the soil while sharing a memory of the deceased.


Trenching Ceremony

A trenching ceremony is very similar to a raking ceremony. For this type of ash scattering service, a trench or hole is dug and then filled with the deceased’s cremated remains. After family members have had the chance to share a memory or say something, the trench is then filled in.


Sky or Aerial Ceremony

An emerging trend for scattering ashes is releasing them from the sky. For this type of ceremony, you will need to hire a private company to fly your loved one’s remains high into the sky and then release them. Because most companies don’t allow people in the plane during the scattering portion, many families will hold a small ceremony on the ground before the plane takes off.


Water Ceremony

If your loved one enjoyed spending time on the water, a water ceremony might be the perfect choice. For this type of service, the remains are placed in a water-soluble urn and then released from a boat. Once in the water, the urn will float for a few moments before dissolving and gently scattering the ashes into the water.



Considerations When Spreading Ashes

Many families choose to scatter their loved one’s ashes at a location that reminds them of their loved one or at a place that their loved one enjoyed going to. Parks, beaches, and waterways are common locations for scattering ashes.


Choose a spot that is special to your loved one, a place where you bonded with your loved one, or somewhere that just reminds you of him or her. It is not a decision that should be taken lightly. However, there are laws and regulations on where you can scatter ashes. Before finalizing a spot, make sure you are allowed to scatter ashes at that spot. Below, we provide some general guidelines on where you cannot spread your loved one’s ashes, and some other things you need to keep in mind. As a first step, with the help from local agencies we will outline the exact bi-laws for ash scattering in your specific location.

01. On Private Property

If you plan on scattering ashes on private property, it's smart to receive written permission from the owner.

02. Public Parks

Public parks require that you obtain a scattering permit.

There are no regulations regarding ash scattering on uncontrolled public lands; you need to use your own judgment.


03. At the Sea or Public Roads

You should not scatter ashes within 100 yards of public roads or trails. Ash scattering at sea must be done at a minimum of three nautical miles from the coastline.

04. Waterways Permits

Scattering ashes in inland waters is governed by the Clean Water Act so it's important to obtain a permit from the agency that oversees waterways.

05. Public Parks Permit

Public parks require that you obtain a scattering permit.

There are no regulations regarding ash scattering on uncontrolled public lands; you need to use your own judgment.

06. At the Sea Notification

For ash scattering done at sea, the Environmental Protection Agency requires that you notify the regional office in writing within 30 days after the event.

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