What to Know before Scattering Ashes after Cremation

Posted on January 24, 2022 by Roslyn Heights Funeral Home under cremation
Comments Off on What to Know before Scattering Ashes after Cremation

cremation services in Westbury, NY

Scattering a loved one’s ashes is common practice after people receive the cremains from a cremation provider in Manhasset, NY. It brings comfort and symbolizes the return of the deceased to nature. But there are a few things you should know before holding that scattering ceremony.

Scattering on Private Property is fine. Just ask permission first.

Many scattering ceremonies happen at locations with sentimental value, like the first place the individual met their partner or their favorite city view. There is nothing wrong with these, but sometimes they are on private property.

When that is the case, make sure to ask for permission before spreading the ashes. Should the owner catch you doing so without permission, they could call the police, and you might get fined or sentenced to community service.

Plus, without permission, the property owner might remove the ashes and dispose of them somewhere else, defeating the purpose of the gesture.

Scattering at National Parks is okay, but not at Sports Stadiums and Amusement Parks.

It is not unheard of that some people want their ashes scattered on the grass of their favorite sports team’s stadium. In fact, it is one of the more common choices. But while not illegal, it is frowned up, and you need permission, which they often decline, to do so.

The same goes for amusement parks. Just because these places receive thousands of visitors a year and are a source of positive memories for many doesn’t make them public property.

National parks, on the other hand, are okay. Most parks in the United States allow the scattering of ashes as long as you follow a few common-sense rules. You need permission (frequently granted), and you must scatter the ashes away from trails and developed areas. Also, environmentally and archeologically sensitive areas are off-limits.

If you wish to spread your loved one’s ashes in a national park, go to the National Park Service’s website for the park you want. From there, you can get relevant, up-to-date information on the process.

It is Okay to Spread Ashes at Sea

Another popular choice, there are some rules to observe before spreading your loved one’s ashes. The most important of them all is that it has to decompose easily. Since it’s ashes, this is not a problem.

Other rules are dependent on the particular body of water. However, most state and federal regulations require you to spread it at least a few yards from the shore. So make sure to read up on the rules that apply to the water.

cremation services in Westbury, NY

Think about Other People

As you’ve noticed, every rule so far is about preserving the quality of the environment for others. Whatever location you choose, make sure you are considerate of others. Unless they are finely pulverized, cremains is distinctive, and no one wants to walk up unexpectedly to them, especially kids.

After cremation, scattering ashes is an integral part of saying goodbye to a loved one. It is crucial to do it in a manner that honors the soul of the departed without infringing on the lives of the living.

Whether you want to place the remains of your loved ones in its perfect urn or scatter the remains in the places dear to them, you can reach out to Roslyn Heights Funeral Home. We are a Westbury, NY cremation service with decades of experience helping people say their final farewell. Call us or visit our location today to get started.

Comments are closed.