What to Consider Before Scattering Ashes

Many times, when a person chooses to be cremated, they want to have their ashes scattered in a particular place. It’s often a place that holds beloved memories from childhood, a favorite vacation spot, or it could be any other meaningful location. After you receive your loved one’s ashes back from your provider of cremation services near Glenview, IL, you will need to do a little research before you go ahead and scatter their ashes. Depending on the location, there may be certain rules about which areas are permitted to scatter and which are not. Here are a few guidelines to get you started.   

Rivers, Lakes, Ponds, and the Ocean 

To begin with, it is always legal to scatter ashes in the ocean. The only stipulation is that you must be at least three miles away from the shore before you scatter. When it comes to other waterways, it will depend on the location and the local laws. You should check with local authorities or the DNR to find out what kind of rules there are when it comes to scattering ashes in lakes, ponds, rivers, or other waterways. 

Private Property 

As you may have guessed, you may scatter ashes on your own private property. If you want to do it on someone else’s, however, you must obtain their permission first. If it’s a friend or family member, all you need to do is ask them. If it’s a larger type of property, somewhere like a stadium or a private golf course, you must talk to the people in charge. They may allow it only at certain times, or in particular locations.   

Public Property & National Parks 

This is going to be similar to the waterways’ situation. Some examples of public spaces would be a local park, or a public beach or golf course. It’s important that you speak with local authorities to find out where it is permissible, so that you don’t scatter in a place that it is not allowed. When it comes to national parks, most of them do allow for the scattering of ashes. However, there are specific areas where it is expressly forbidden, so make sure to check with the rangers before you choose a spot to scatter ashes.   

Cemeteries 

Some people choose to scatter their loved one’s ashes in a cemetery garden. These are intended to be a peaceful place of rest, and a place where loved ones can visit to remember the one that they lost. Check with the cemetery before scattering there, as well.   

The basic idea is that in most places, you must obtain permission before scattering ashes. There are some places where it is strictly not allowed, and you’ll need to avoid those areas. Scattering ashes can be a beautiful ceremony for loved ones to say goodbye. It’s also a meaningful way to return your loved one’s remains to a place that they held dear. Your provider of cremation services near Glenview, IL, can help answer any questions, as well as provide scattering urns or biodegradable urns for land or sea burial check our merchandise. That way, you can be at peace knowing your loved one has been returned to a place that they loved in life.