Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes in the Ocean? California Laws & Requirements

Quick Answer: Yes, it is legal to scatter ashes in the ocean in California and throughout the United States. However, you must follow specific federal EPA regulations and California state requirements. The key rules: you must scatter at least 3 nautical miles from shore, use only biodegradable materials, and obtain a California disposition permit.

Federal EPA Regulations for Scattering Ashes at Sea

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates all burials at sea in U.S. waters under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act. Here are the federal requirements that apply nationwide:

The 3-Mile Rule

You must scatter ashes at least 3 nautical miles from shore. This is approximately 3.45 statute miles. Scattering ashes closer to shore, including directly from beaches or piers, violates federal law.

This requirement ensures that cremated remains are dispersed in deeper waters where ocean currents can properly distribute them without impacting coastal areas, swimming beaches, or marine habitats near shore.

Biodegradable Materials Only

Everything placed in the ocean during an ash scattering must be biodegradable. This includes:

• Fresh flower petals (yes - these are biodegradable)

• Natural wreaths made from biodegradable materials

• The urn or container (if you're placing it in the ocean rather than scattering)

Not allowed:

• Plastic flowers or decorations

• Non-biodegradable urns (unless you remove ashes from them first)

• Metal containers

• Anything that won't naturally decompose

California State Requirements for Scattering Ashes

Beyond federal EPA rules, California has additional requirements for handling and scattering cremated remains:

The VS-9 Permit

California requires a Permit for Disposition of Human Remains (officially called a "VS-9" permit, with VS standing for Vital Statistics). This permit is required any time cremated remains are scattered, buried, or disposed of.

How to get the VS-9 permit:

• The funeral home or crematory that performs the cremation creates this permit

• The permit costs approximately $12

• The permit specifies where the remains will be scattered (in your case: "scatter at sea off the coast of Los Angeles")

• You must bring this permit with you to the scattering ceremony

Cremated Remains Disposer License

Any business that handles the scattering of cremated remains in California must hold a Cremated Remains Disposer (CRD) license issued by the state. This ensures the service operates legally and follows all regulations.

Dignified Burials at Sea operates under California CRD License #1036, making us one of the few fully licensed ocean scattering services in Los Angeles.

What's Legal vs. Illegal: Common Questions

Answered

Is it illegal to spread ashes in the ocean?

No, it's not illegal if you follow the rules: scatter at least 3 miles from shore, use only biodegradable materials, obtain the required California permit, and file the paperwork with the Health Department and The State of California at the required times.

Can you scatter ashes from the beach?

No. Scattering from a beach, pier, or anywhere within 3 nautical miles of shore violates EPA regulations. You must be at least 3 miles offshore in a boat or vessel.

Is it illegal to dump ashes in the ocean?

The terms "dump," "scatter," "spread," and "throw" all mean the same thing legally. It's legal to scatter ashes in the ocean as long as you follow EPA and state requirements. The word "dump" sounds harsh, but legally there's no distinction—all refer to releasing cremated remains into ocean waters.

Can you scatter ashes yourself, or do you need a service?

You can scatter ashes yourself if you:

• Have a boat or vessel that can take you 3+ miles offshore

• Obtain the California VS-9 permit beforehand

• File the permit with California after scattering

• Use only biodegradable materials

However, most families hire professional services because:

• Accurately navigating 3 miles offshore requires marine experience

• Professional services handle all permits and filings

• Licensed services ensure full legal compliance

• You can focus on the ceremony rather than logistics

Is it illegal to scatter ashes in California?

No, it's legal throughout California with proper permits. You can scatter ashes at sea from any California coastal location (San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, etc.) as long as you follow the 3-mile offshore rule and state permitting requirements.

What about scattering ashes on land in California?

California law allows scattering ashes on private property with the property owner's permission. Many cemeteries have designated "scattering gardens." National parks and public lands have varying rules—some prohibit it entirely, others allow it with permits. Ocean scattering is often simpler because the regulations are clear and consistent.

Can you scatter ashes in lakes, rivers, or bays?

California allows scattering in moving bodies of water (rivers and streams) but not in landlocked lakes or reservoirs. Bays and harbors typically fall under different regulations. The ocean is the clearest option legally.

How to Legally Scatter Ashes in the Ocean in Los Angeles

Here's the complete process to ensure full legal compliance:

1. Obtain the California VS-9 Permit

Work with the funeral home or crematory that performs the cremation to get the Permit for Disposition of Human Remains. This typically costs around $12 and specifies that remains will be “Scattered at sea off the coast of Los Angeles”

2. Choose Your Scattering Method

Option A: Hire a Licensed Service (Recommended)

• Professional services handle all legal requirements

• They're licensed as Cremated Remains Disposers by California

• They file permits with the state after scattering

• You simply attend the ceremony and participate as much or as little as you wish

Option B: Do It Yourself

• Charter a boat that can take you 3+ miles offshore (ensure the captain knows the 3-mile requirement)

• Bring the VS-9 permit with you

• Document the exact location where you scatter (GPS coordinates)

• Use only biodegradable materials

• File the permit with California's Department of Public Health afterward

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3. Scatter at Least 3 Miles from Shore

Professional services know the exact locations that meet EPA requirements.

4. Use Only Biodegradable Materials

Fresh flower petals are perfect. Avoid purchasing expensive biodegradable urns—they often don't work as advertised (they may not sink properly or may sink too quickly). Most professional services transfer ashes to a reusable basket with flowers for a more reliable and beautiful ceremony.

5. Complete Post-Scattering Requirements

File the VS-9 permit with the Health Department and the State of California after the Scattering.

How Much Does It Cost to Scatter Ashes at Sea in Los Angeles?

Costs for scattering ashes at sea vary based on whether family members attend and how many guests participate:

Unwitnessed (Unattended) Scattering

Approximately $175-$325 depending on the service. With this option:

• You mail or drop off the cremated remains

• A licensed captain scatters the ashes on your behalf

• You receive a certificate with GPS coordinates and date

• You don't attend the ceremony

This is the most affordable option for families who cannot attend or prefer a simple, private scattering.

Attended Ceremonies (Family on Board)

Approximately $990.00-$6,380.00 (tax included)depending on:

• Vessel size (small intimate boat vs. large yacht)

• Number of passengers (services charge based on group size)

• Duration (2-hour vs. 3-hour charter) dictated by group size.

Typical pricing structure:

• Small groups (1-6 people): $990.00 ( tax included) on an intimate vessel

• Large groups (7-41 people): $1,650.00-$6,380.00 ( tax included) on a larger Coast Guard-inspected yacht

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What's Included in Professional Services

• Licensed vessel with experienced captain and crew

• All legal compliance (permits,state filing)

• Ceremonial equipment (scattering basket,preparation)

• Food and beverages during the voyage

• Sound system for music

• Approximately 45 minutes each way travel time plus ceremony time

• Professional, compassionate service throughout

Hidden Costs to Avoid

Be wary of "bareboat charter" services that appear cheaper, and offer passenger capacity in excess of their true legal capacity, ( 6 passengers ). These operations:

• Make YOU the legal charterer (putting liability on you)

• May not be properly licensed

• Often exceed legal passenger limits

• Require you to pay the captain separately

• Put you at legal risk if something goes wrong

True professional services operate as "captained time voyage charters" where they maintain all liability and legal compliance.

Scattering Ashes in Los Angeles: Local

Considerations

Why Marina del Rey is the Premier Location

Marina del Rey, located in the heart of Santa Monica Bay, is the ideal departure point for ash scattering ceremonies in Los Angeles because:

• Central location serving all of Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and surrounding areas

• Recognizable scattering locations (typically 3 miles off Santa Monica Pier—an iconic, memorable landmark)

• Calm waters in Santa Monica Bay compared to more exposed coastal areas

• Marine life (dolphins,seals, sea lions, Pelicans, sea birds,and occasionally whales are seen frequently)

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Los Angeles County Water Taxi License

In Los Angeles County, any vessel carrying passengers for hire must have a water taxi License, and a water taxi operator license. Getting this license requires:

• Thousands of dollars in fees

• Extensive application process

• Extensive documentation and vessel inspections

• A hearing with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors

Many charter operations in Los Angeles don't have proper licensing. Dignified Burials at Sea holds water taxi operator licenses and Water Taxi Licenses  for our vessels, ensuring full legal compliance beyond just the CRD license.

Orange County, Ventura County, and Other Southern California Locations

The same EPA and California rules apply throughout the state. Whether you're in Long Beach, Newport Beach, Oxnard, or San Diego, you must scatter at least 3 miles offshore with proper permits.

Marina del Rey serves families from throughout Southern California, including Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, the San Gabriel Valley, and the South Bay. Many families choose Marina del Rey even if they're located farther south because of the superior vessels and central location in Santa Monica Bay.

Why Legal Compliance Matters

Protecting the Ocean Environment

The 3-mile law and biodegradable material requirements exist to protect coastal waters, beaches, and marine ecosystems. Following these rules ensures ocean ash scattering remains an environmentally responsible choice.

Avoiding Fines and Legal Issues

Scattering ashes within 3 miles of shore or using non-biodegradable materials can result in  fines. Using an unlicensed service can create legal liability.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your loved one's ashes were scattered legally and respectfully provides peace of mind. Professional services ensure everything is done correctly so you can focus on honoring your loved one rather than worrying about compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do police or Coast Guard check if you're 3 miles out? While it's rare, Coast Guard vessels can stop and inspect any boat. Professional services use electronic navigation equipment to ensure precise compliance with the 3-mile requirement.

What if we accidentally scattered too close to shore? If you used a professional licensed service, they bear the responsibility. If you did it yourself and were within 3 miles, you technically violated regulations. This is why most families use professional services.

Can we scatter some ashes at sea and keep some at home? Yes. Many families divide ashes to scatter at sea, keep in an urn at home, place in jewelry, or scatter in multiple locations. California law allows this as long as you have proper permits for each disposition method.

How long does the permit process take? The funeral home can typically issue the VS-9 permit within a day or two. Professional scattering services can often accommodate ceremonies within a day of receiving the permit and cremated remains.

What happens if we use an unlicensed service? You could face legal liability if anything goes wrong. Unlicensed services may not carry proper insurance, may exceed legal passenger limits, and may not file required permits correctly, or at all. Always verify a service holds a California CRD license and proper local permits.

Legal Ash Scattering Made Simple

While the regulations for scattering ashes in the ocean might seem complex, working with a licensed professional service makes the process straightforward. You simply:

1. Contact a licensed service (verify their California CRD license)

2. Provide the VS-9 permit from your funeral home

3. Schedule your ceremony

4. Attend and participate in a meaningful ocean memorial

The service handles all legal requirements, State notifications, permit filings, and logistics. You can focus entirely on honoring your loved one.

Ready to Plan a Legal Ocean Ash Scattering?

Dignified Burials at Sea is fully licensed in California (CRD License #1036) and operates legal water taxi charters in Los Angeles County. We handle all  legal compliance so your family can focus on creating a meaningful memorial.

Call us to discuss your needs: [PHONE NUMBER]