Is it legal to scatter ashes at California beaches and parks? Here’s what the rules say
When deciding to scatter the ashes of a loved one, you may have some questions: Can I spread them anywhere? Do I have to notify anybody? What are the rules?
Scattering ashes is not illegal in California, but there are a few requirements.
California law outlines the process for scattering ashes in the state, including required paperwork, where you can spread and other rules. Here’s what to know:
Do I need a permit to scatter ashes in California?
A permit is required by the state to scatter ashes on public or private property, according to the California Department of Consumer Affairs Cemetery & Funeral Bureau.
Four copies of the Application and Permit for the Disposition of Human Remains (VS 9 Permit) must be acquired after authorization.
- One copy must be sent to the county registrar where the ashes were scattered, or to the nearest county registrar if the ashes were scattered at sea.
- A second copy is kept by the person scattering the ashes.
- Copy three is returned to the county where the death occurred if the remains were scattered in a different county. If the ashes are scattered in the county where the death occurred, copy three of the permit is not necessary.
- The fourth copy is kept by the county that issued the permit.
For the permit, you’ll need:
- An original death certificate
- The city, county and state of death
- The date of birth of the deceased
- The date of death
- The full name of the deceased
No other permit is required by the state to scatter ashes on your own private property or at sea. Additional permits or permission may be required for public property, like state or national parks, or private property belonging to someone else.
Where can I scatter ashes in California?
Ashes can be scattered on private or public property, and some locations have requirements separate from the permit.
The laws for scattering remains are determined by counties and cities, not the state, said Peter Fournier, a spokesman for department of consumer affairs. It’s important you check local requirements before you proceed.
Five places you can scatter ashes in the state, according to Simply Remembered Cremation Care, a California-based provider, are:
- The Pacific Ocean — Ashes need to be be scattered at least 500 yards from shore. Private boats or boating services may be used to go the required distance. The United States Environmental Protection Agency must be notified within 30 days of the scattering.
- In the air — Ashes can be spread via airplane so long as there is no possibility of damage being done to property or people.
- State or national parks — Research should be done to check whether the park requires additional permits or has a designated ash scattering zone.
- Sports stadiums — Permission is needed from the arena owner.
- Mountain peaks — Permission is needed from the county office.
Generally, you can’t scatter ashes on public land or private land that is not your own without written consent from the property owner, according to Simply Remembered. You can never scatter ashes in lakes, rivers or streams.
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