Ash Scattering Services

When a family chooses to cremate a loved one, they have to make a personal and important decision about what to do with the ashes. Some families like to keep the ashes at home in a nice urn, while others prefer to put them in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery. Many people find comfort in scattering the ashes in a place that was important to them.

Families can carefully plan where and how to scatter their loved one's ashes after cremation. No one group is in charge of making sure that scattering rules are followed, but knowing these important rules will help you plan a respectful ceremony:

• Always get written permission from the property owner before scattering ashes on their land.
• A scattering permit is needed for most public parks before any ceremony can happen.
• There aren't usually any specific rules for uncontrolled public lands, but you should use common sense and good judgment when making decisions.
• You should never scatter ashes within 100 yards of any public roads or trails.
• You have to throw away the cremation container in a way that is good for the environment.
• The Clean Water Act covers scattering ashes in inland waterways, which means you need a permit from the right agency that oversees those waterways.
• At least three nautical miles from the shore, ocean scattering must take place.
• Flowers and wreaths used in an ocean scattering ceremony must be able to break down completely. You should never leave behind plastic flowers or other things that won't break down.
• The Environmental Protection Agency says that you must send a letter to your regional office within 30 days of any ocean scattering ceremony.

How to Scatter Ashes in PA

The ashes from a cremation don't look like the ashes from a fireplace; they are more like coarse sand or fine gravel. There are some smaller particles, though, so always check the wind direction before throwing the remains into the air or over water to make sure the ceremony is respectful.
Another useful method is trenching. Just dig a shallow trench where you want it, put the ashes or a biodegradable urn inside, and gently cover it with dirt. This method works great in gardens or other natural places.
Raking is another way that families find meaningful. Pour the ashes carefully onto the ground and use a garden rake to mix them in, sending your loved one back to nature.
We have a nice selection of scattering urns that are perfect for these kinds of ceremonies. Our caring staff is always available to help you plan a meaningful scattering service if you need help.

Ash Scattering Tips

Get Permission for Scattering on Private Property

You don't need any special permission or paperwork to scatter on property that you own. You must get permission first, though, if you want to do something on land that someone else owns, like a business or an individual. Before any scattering ceremony, always get written permission from the property owner that is signed and dated. This will help you avoid any legal problems.

Sports Venues & Amusement Parks

Even though thousands of people visit sports stadiums and amusement parks every year, these places are still private and have their own rules. You can ask to scatter ashes at these places, but management often says no. If you scatter without permission, security will probably get involved, the police will be called, and the remains will be taken away. This is a very sad outcome for any family.

Public Spaces

A lot of cities and towns need permits to scatter things in public parks and other places. There may not be any formal rules on public land that isn't controlled, but you still need to use good judgment. You should never spread ashes within 100 yards of public trails, walkways, or roads where people often walk.

Scattering Ashes in National Parks

Many families choose to scatter ashes in national parks because they have beautiful natural settings. Many National Parks do allow ash scattering, but there are usually rules that must be followed. Before you plan your ceremony, get in touch with the chief park ranger, get written permission, and make sure you understand all the rules that apply. Like other public places, stay away from trails and developed areas that get a lot of visitors.

Scattering Ashes in Waterways

The US Environmental Protection Agency allows people to scatter ashes at sea and over ocean waters if they follow certain rules. A boat or plane must be at least three nautical miles offshore for the ceremony to take place. You have 30 days after the scattering to send the EPA a written notice.

 There are different rules for scattering over inland waters like rivers, ponds, streams, and lakes than there are for scattering in the ocean. Our staff will work with your local environmental agency, state mortuary board, or city hall to find out what the rules are for each body of water you're thinking about.

Being Considerate of Others & the Community

Even if scattering is allowed at a place, please be considerate of others who are also using that space. Stay away from places where a lot of people walk or use the public space. Think about how you would feel if you found cremated remains while you were out with your family. Pick a quiet place where your loved one's ashes can rest in peace and not be disturbed.

Where should I scatter Ashes in the Pottsville, PA Area?

Cremation gives families a lot of time to think about where and how to scatter their loved one's ashes in a way that honors them. A lot of families choose places that remind them of happy times or places their loved one loved to visit while they were alive. Schuylkill County has parks, scenic overlooks, mountain trails, and peaceful waterways that are great places to hold scattering ceremonies.

 Pick a place that was important to your loved one, a place where you made memories that will last, or a place that captures their spirit and personality. You should think carefully about this choice. But before you make any plans, make sure that scattering is allowed at the place you want to go. The staff at Schlitzer

Allen Pugh Funeral Home has a lot of experience and can help you understand the rules and plan a ceremony that really honors your loved one's memory.

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