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Cremation

Scattering Cremated Remains at Sea

Nevada has one of the highest rates of cremation in the world. At Heritage, we are aware that families have cremation as an option for the disposition of their loved ones. However, it doesn't end with the selection of cremation. The family still will have to decide if their loved one will have a viewing, funeral, memorial, burial, niche, or be placed on a mantle, or scattered. 


Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place. As the premier Funeral Home in Las Vegas, we are dedicated to providing you with comprehensive guidance on the proper protocols for scattering your loved one's cremated remains at sea.

Cremated Remains Scattering

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that scattering cremated remains at sea is both permissible and legal. However, it is essential to ensure that any materials introduced into the water can decompose easily.


At Heritage, we offer biodegradable urns specifically designed to enclose the cremated remains, facilitating their handling during the scattering process. By utilizing these urns, the likelihood of the cremated remains returning to your face due to wind gusts is significantly reduced.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the burial of human remains at sea is strictly prohibited. Therefore, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing the scattering of cremated remains:


  1. Cremated remains may only be placed in the ocean at a distance of three nautical miles or more from the nearest land.
  2. Scattering can be conducted from either a boat or an airplane.
  3. Only biodegradable urns are permissible for use during the scattering process.
  4. Any items introduced into the water must be capable of decomposing easily within a marine environment. While flowers or wreaths can be released into the water, they must also meet the same requirements of being capable of decomposing easily.
  5. Although a permit is not mandatory, it is necessary to report the burial to the EPA within 30 days.
  6. Scattering pet cremated remains at sea requires a special permit and cannot be done without proper authorization.


It's important to note that most rivers, ponds, and lakes are not subject to federal regulation, and therefore these scattering laws do not apply. 


You need to contact the mortuary board, environmental agency, or health agency in the state where you want to scatter cremated remains. 


Many states also have laws related to scattering cremated remains that prohibit cremains from being scattered on beaches or shorelines. Some states, such as California, do permit it as long as you’re 500 yards from shore. Please contact the appropriate agency for further assistance.


Scattering cremated remains in inland waters is illegal in some states.

Here Are Two Types Biodegradable Urns

If you would like to know more about our selections give our professional staff a call at 702-852-1464. It would be our pleasure to facilitate a meaningful scattering ceremony for your loved one today. 

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