Many people who choose to be cremated or undergo aquamation services near Jacksonville, NC, wish for their ashes to be scattered in one or more locations. These are often places that hold meaningful memories from their life, such as a beloved childhood spot or a favorite vacation destination. A scattering ceremony can be a beautiful way for family and friends to gather and honor the memory of their loved one while saying their final goodbyes. However, it’s important that you do a bit of research before deciding on where to spread your loved one’s ashes. In many places, there are rules or regulations about where and if spreading ashes is allowed. Here are some basic guidelines to follow.

Lakes, Rivers, Ponds, and the Ocean

Bodies of water are a very common place for people to scatter ashes. Whether your loved one spent lots of time boating or grew up spending time in the water, this may be the type of place that they chose. When it comes to the ocean, it is always legal to scatter ashes there. The only caveat is that you must be at least three miles off the shoreline. When it comes to rivers, lakes, and ponds, however, there are more limitations. You must contact the DNR or local authorities to find out if it’s acceptable to scatter ashes, and if it is, where they allow it.

Private Property

It is always legal to scatter ashes on your own property. If you want to spread them on the land of a family member or friend, all you need to do is speak to them and get their permission. When it comes to private property like golf courses, stadiums, parks, etc., you will need to obtain permission from the owners or the people in charge. That way, you can be sure that you’re not breaking any laws by scattering your loved one’s ashes there.

Public Property and National Parks

If your loved one wanted their ashes to be spread in a place like a public park or beach, you must speak with local authorities to find out where you can go. Some places will disallow scattering in crowded areas or areas with lots of traffic. When it comes to national parks, it is generally allowed to scatter ashes there. However, there are some particular exceptions where it is expressly prohibited, so it’s important that you check with a park ranger or someone in charge.

Essentially, the takeaway here is that in almost all cases, you need to obtain permission before scattering ashes. With the exception of your own private property and the ocean, most places may have regulations that need to be observed. After your loved one has undergone aquamation services near Jacksonville, NC, and you want to scatter their ashes, be sure to do your research first. That way, you can make a special and meaningful plan for spreading their remains, and you can be at peace knowing your loved one will be brought back to a place that they loved in life.