There Are Rules And Regulations When It Comes Scattering Ashes In Florida

By Deborah Cox


Not everybody wants to be buried in the ground. Some feel it's environmentally irresponsible unless the casket is made out of material that will decompose. Others have places that were special in their lives, and want their remains commemorated there. It is usually a place where there is no traditional burial site, like the ocean. If you are deciding how you want your remains disposed of in the Sunshine State, you have to know the rules and regulations for scattering ashes in Florida.

In Florida it's against the law to scatter remains on public land. This means you can't spread the ashes in front of monuments, in the middle of town squares, or in public parks. If you aren't sure whether or not a spot falls under this law, you should consider how it is used. If it's open to the public, you can't spread remains there.

You may scatter remains on federal public land though. If you have great memories of a national park located in the state and want to be memorialized there, you will be allowed to. Your family will have to get permission before the ceremony. They will have to contact the appropriate governmental agency for guidance. One thing they will learn is that roads, trails, and waterways are off limits.

A lot of people who want to be cremated want their remains scattered in the ocean. This is permissible under certain conditions. You shouldn't mistake that to mean you can scatter ashes in any body of water. In Florida, it's illegal to scatter them in any public waterway. That includes streams, lakes, rivers, and any tributaries connected to them. A lot of the state's drinking water comes from these sources.

Federal law allows individuals to bury remains in the ocean as long as they are three or more miles from the shoreline. The manner of transportation doesn't really matter. Boats, helicopters and planes are most commonly used. If your family desires, they can conduct the service themselves. They can also opt to retain the services of a business that specializes in ocean burials and can offer customized package deals.

In Florida, you can scatter remains on private property that you own. You can scatter them on someone else's property when you have written permission. If you want to be scattered over your backyard, you can be. You can have the ceremony at a private park, in a private theater, or at a private sports arena. The law does state however, that your family is required to be discreet and keep in mind the sensitivity of others.

Scattering remains can be more difficult than it sounds. You need to keep several things in mind. Most people are surprised by the volume of ashes. They can cover a lot of ground. When you scatter, make sure everyone is upwind of you. You should swing the pot or urn from below your waist. Be sure to take the urn or box with you when you leave.

If you have strong feelings about you burial, you need to let people know. It can take some time to contact the proper agencies and get authorization. The more you find out about what's allowed and what's not, before you go, the easier it will be for your loved ones.




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