Where can you scatter ashes in the UK?
Are you allowed to scatter ashes anywhere? Learn the rules for scattering ashes at sea, at home and more.
When a person dies and is cremated, it's common for their family to scatter their ashes in a special place. This could be a beautiful outdoor spot, a place that meant something to the person who died or somewhere else entirely.
But are you allowed to scatter ashes anywhere? Are there any laws or guidelines that say where you can or can't scatter them?
That's what this article is about. We tell you what the law says about scattering cremated remains in the UK and look at several potential locations in more detail.
Where can you scatter ashes legally in the UK?
There is no law in the UK that specifically covers where you can scatter ashes.
This means you can scatter ashes almost anywhere. However, there are a few things to consider before you choose a spot.
- Is it on private land? If so, you must get permission from the landowner.
- Are there any rules or guidelines to be aware of? This could be local guidelines covering, for example, a public park or general guidelines about protecting the environment.
- Is it a busy public place? It's best to choose a quiet spot to avoid upsetting passersby.
Now we know what to do, let's look at some popular locations and see how these guidelines apply.
Can you scatter ashes on a family grave?
Cemeteries, churchyards and burial grounds are private land – and each has its own rules about scattering ashes.
If these rules aren't posted publicly, you should ask the cemetery owner's permission. You can do this yourself or get your funeral director to ask for you.
Some cemeteries don't allow scattering ashes. Some do allow it, but only in a designated spot (such as a memorial garden). Others will be happy for you to scatter ashes on a family grave – but in any case, it's best to get permission first.
Can you scatter ashes in a public park?
Most public parks are owned and managed by local councils. Others are owned by conservation organisations, such as the National Trust.
If it's a council-owned park, you should write to the local council and ask permission to scatter the ashes. You'll want to contact the council's bereavement services department.
If you want to scatter ashes on National Trust land, you can contact the National Trust online to ask permission.
Can you scatter ashes in a National Park?
The UK's National Parks are a little unusual. Unlike National Parks in the United States, for instance, or Ireland, most of the land in our National Parks is in private hands.
So, if you want to scatter ashes in a UK National Park, you should first determine who the landowner is and – again – ask their permission.
Most of the time, this will be a private company or individual. A much smaller proportion of land is owned by National Park Authorities, the organisations responsible for managing National Parks.
Can you scatter ashes in a river or lake?
The guidance here is a little confusing. Some resources say it's OK to scatter ashes on any river or lake without permission. Others say you need permission from the landowner if it's a privately owned watercourse.
Our advice is to play it safe. Find out if the river or lake is on private land and ask permission from the landowner if necessary.
It's also important to follow local rules and regulations, as well as the Environment Agency's guidelines on scattering ashes in water.
These are:
- Limit the impact on the environment and wildlife as much as possible.
- Make sure other people who are using the water aren't affected.
- Don't throw any other objects, such as wreaths or urns.
Can you scatter ashes in the sea?
Yes. You're free to scatter ashes at sea without getting permission or a special licence. That's one reason why it's such a popular choice.
However, you should still follow the Environment Agency's guidelines and any local rules.
Remember that beaches are often busy, too – and ashes can blow in the wind. Make sure you go on a quiet day or choose a secluded part of the beach to avoid upsetting people around you.
Can you scatter ashes in your own back garden?
It depends on whether you own your house and garden.
If you do, you're free to scatter the ashes – it's your land, after all. However, if you rent your house, you should ask permission from your landlord.
Other ways to pay tribute
There's a reason why many people choose to scatter ashes. It's a chance to get together with loved ones in a special place and say a final goodbye to the person who died.
But it's not the only way to pay tribute. If you'd prefer to hold onto the ashes, you could keep them in an urn at home. An urn is a special container designed to keep cremated remains safe.
This might be a good choice if you want to feel close to the person who died. Their remains will always be there when you want to take a moment to reflect.
Another option is to bury the ashes. Most cemeteries and burial grounds have special plots for cremated remains. These are usually more affordable than full burial plots.
Burying ashes at home is also an option. This comes with its own set of rules and regulations. We'll cover these soon in another blog post.
However, you don't have to choose any one of these options. You could, for instance, bury most of the ashes in a cemetery but keep a little in an urn at home. Or you could scatter half of the ashes in one place and half in another. Or share them between family members. It's up to you.
And remember that there are no deadlines. Don't feel rushed to do something with the ashes – you're free to take your time making your mind up.
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