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

By Deborah Cox


The older people get the more likely they are to make plans for their funeral and interment. Some object to being buried underground because it's environmentally irresponsible. Those who opt for cremation may leave specific instructions about where they want their remains scattered. Sometimes people make unusual requests, and the families are left to find out if the laws regulating scattering ashes in Florida will allow them to grant the last wishes.

People are barred from spreading remains on public land. This includes town squares and monuments in addition to public parks. If you have any question about an area, you only have to consider whether or not the public can visit it. If the answer is yes, you will have to find somewhere else.

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.

You are allowed to disperse remains in the ocean as long as you follow the guidelines put in place by the federal government. It requires you to go at least three miles out before you scatter the remains. There is not really any limitation on the type of conveyance from which your family scatters your remains. Boats, helicopters, and planes are all fine.

If you own land, you can request that your ashes be scattered over it. You can even have your remains scattered on someone else's property as long as you get permission. If, for some reason, you want to be memorialized in the private theater, sports arena, or park, it is legal to do so. Services must be discreet and sensitive to the feelings 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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