Can I Scatter Cremated Remains Over Water?

By: David Tindall
Monday, March 20, 2023

To scatter cremated remains over water is a popular way to pay tribute to a loved one who had a close relationship with the ocean or any other body of water.

Can I Scatter Cremated Remains Over Water?

At Tindall Funeral Home, we have seen that many families choose to scatter their loved one's ashes over these waters, but is it legal to do so in New York? The answer is yes, but with certain restrictions. In NY, scattering cremated remains over water is allowed as long as:

  • The remains are dispersed at least three nautical miles from shore. This requirement ensures that the remains do not wash up on the shore, which can be upsetting to beachgoers.
  • Another requirement is that the container used to transport the remains to the scattering site must be biodegradable. This is to ensure that the container will not pose any harm to marine life or the environment. Common biodegradable containers include those made from paper, cardboard, or natural materials like bamboo or salt.
  • It's important to note that New York does not require a permit for scattering cremated remains over water. However, if you plan to hold a formal ceremony on a boat, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authorities.
  • When you scatter remains over water, you must consider the weather conditions. It's best to choose a day when the water is calm and the wind is not too strong. This will make it easier to disperse the ashes evenly over the water.
  • You may also want to consider the time of day and the location of the sun, as the reflection of the sun on the water can make it difficult to see where the ashes are scattered.
  • Understand the emotional impact of scattering cremated remains over water. It can be a beautiful and meaningful way to say goodbye to a loved one, but it can also be emotional and overwhelming. Many families choose to have a small ceremony or moment of silence before scattering the ashes to honor their loved one's memory.

Other Things To Consider When You Scatter Cremated Remains

While no permit is required to scatter cremated remains, you may need to obtain one if you plan to hold a formal ceremony on a boat. It's important to consider the weather conditions and the emotional impact of scattering cremated remains over water.

Our funeral director can help you with any additional information regarding where you can scatter cremated remains over water as well as our other services. Contact us at Tindall Funeral Home or call (315) 468-5521.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

What Are Prepaid Funeral Services?

We at Tindall Funeral Home have seen that prepaid funeral services have gained popularity in alleviating funeral arrangements' financial and logistical burdens. Pre-Planning a funeral involves vari...

5 Things To Do With Your Loved One's Ashes

Losing a loved one is never easy, and choosing a method of disposition that honors their memory can be complex. Many families opt for a cremation to celebrate their loved one's life and create a me...

What To Discuss During the Funeral Arrangement Meeting

If this is your first time planning a funeral, it can be a very stressful and overwhelming experience. Dealing with the death of a loved one can be challenging, and having a professional funeral di...

Can I Still Have A Gathering/Visitation/Service If I Choose Cremation?

Cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for families who have lost a loved one. While cremation is often seen as a simpler and more affordable option compared to traditional burial, we...

Why Do I Need A Funeral Home If I Only Want Cremation?

At Tindall Funeral Home, many clients that choose cremation ask us this question. Some families wonder if they still need the help of a funeral home as the practice of direct cremation becomes more...

What Are The Different Types Of Low-Cost Cremation?

Cremation is steadily becoming the preferred final disposition option for people from various faiths throughout the US, and there are several reasons for this. Cremation is less complex, cheaper, a...

Care Essentials While Grieving The Loss Of A Loved One

Even the most resilient individuals may crack while grieving the loss of a loved one. Dealing with grief is an individual process that nobody else can do for you. When you lose someone close to you...

How Can I Find Out About The Price Of Funerals?

Organizing a funeral can be expensive, especially if you choose more unique arrangements. The cost of funerals must unquestionably be known to the public. Although it is possible to acquire a rough...

Where Can I Scatter Cremated Remains?

Once the cremation is complete, the crematory will return the ashes to the relatives. People not used to dealing with cremated remains often feel lost about what to do with them. Depending on wheth...

Memory Making Family Christmas Traditions to Start This Year

It's bittersweet to celebrate Christmas while remembering loved ones who have passed away. An emotional void left by a loved one's passing could feel more crushing as the winter holidays approach. ...