4 Places to Scatter Ashes in Florida
If you’re preparing for an end-of-life ceremony and you’re considering interring cremated remains in the Sunshine State, you’re on the right track. Florida is one of the best states in the U.S. for cremation and memorials, not just because of the sun, ocean, and views.
In Florida, there are no state cremation laws or regulations that restrict where you can scatter or inter cremated remains, according to Nolo.
However, please be sure to be respectful when scattering cremated remains. It is important to maintain the dignity of the deceased and any people or place you choose to scatter. Let’s consider a few of the best avenues for interring cremated remains in Florida:
1. Neptune Memorial Reef
Any list of cremated remains interment in Florida starts with the Memorial Reef off the coast of Key Biscayne near Miami. The Neptune Memorial Reef is an artificial structure designed to interpret the lost city of Atlantis and provides a shelter for local marine wildlife.
But most notable is how the reef incorporates cremated remains: Rather than burying urns or scattering ashes, the remains are built into the material that forms the reef itself. As a result, the area is welcome to divers and visitors, making it an ideal way to use your loved one’s cremated remains as part of something enduring.
2. Burial at Sea
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Florida is practically synonymous with beaches and the ocean – it has the second-longest coastline in the U.S., trailing only Alaska.
As such, those who seek burial at sea should start by looking at their options in Florida. Sea Services notes have numerous departure points, including Clearwater, Miami, Key West, Palm Beach, Daytona Beach, and others.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, cremated remains shall be buried in or on ocean waters of any depth, provided that such burial takes place at least three nautical miles from land.
Additionally, the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act for burial at sea applies to ocean waters, while distributing cremated remains in lakes, rivers, or other inland waters is not subject to federal regulation under the MPRSA. However, individual states may have requirements governing the scattering of cremated remains into lakes and rivers of the state.
Burial of cremated remains in inland waters is prohibited in some states. You should contact the state environmental agency, health agency, or mortuary board to determine any legal requirements that apply to scattering ashes into the waters of that state.
The EPA should be notified within 30 days of scattering cremated remains at sea.
3. Traditional Cremation Services
Maybe you live in the Sunshine State and want a simple cremation ceremony, interment in one or more elegant urns, or something similar.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options for people like you, who don’t necessarily want the fanfare of a burial at sea or interment in the Memorial Reef.
National Cremation Society has offices and services throughout the state that provide everything from direct cremation to complete funeral services.
4. Distribution By Plane
Though not a unique characteristic of Florida-based cremation ceremonies, scattering remains by air is an increasingly popular choice. Doing so in Florida offers a bit more freedom than other states, where there are more regulations against scattering ashes at sea.
In Florida, you don’t have to worry about the cremated remains falling somewhere protected. You might even choose to fly over the Everglades or a national park if you have a particular affinity for nature, while the Florida Keys offer a stunning island vista.
But, as with all plane scatterings, be sure to go with a legally authorized provider that knows how to complete the ceremony safely and respectfully.
No matter which avenue you choose, Florida remains an excellent site for cremation ceremonies, given how flexible and varied your options are. For more inspiration or help with the planning process, be sure to contact the experts at the National Cremation Society.
National Cremation is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of simple and affordable cremation services. Whether you have an immediate need or want to plan your cremation services in advance, we’re always available to assist you and your family. Contact us online or call (855)-469-9474 today.
