Scattering Ashes of Loved Ones in State Parks

Choosing a location to spread a loved one’s ashes is an important decision. If your loved one enjoyed the outdoors, you may wish to scatter their remains in California’s open spaces. California State Parks allows individuals to scatter cremated human remains (ashes), where appropriate, within the State Park System with an approved permit.

Below you will find frequently asked questions (FAQs) about scattering ashes in California’s 280 state parks.

Can I scatter ashes in California’s state parks?
A permit is required to spread ashes in California’s State Park System.The public must contact a State Parks district office to submit a permit application (example) and find out how to properly spread their loved one’s ashes. 

Why do I need a permit to scatter ashes in California’s state parks?
California law (Health and Safety Code Section 7116) requires anyone scattering ashes to obtain the written permission of the property owner or controlling government agency. This law is strictly enforced. Violators may be cited and subject to a fine of $500 and/or six months in jail.

What type of restrictions does the permit have?
The appropriateness of scattering ashes within California’s state parks is determined by the district/sector superintendent (click here to view district contacts).

Below are some examples of where the spreading of ashes in the State Park System is notallowed:
  • On trails.
  • Archeological sites, Native American burial sites, and locations where incompatible activities occur or may be planned in the future.
  • The Federal Clean Water Act requires that cremated remains be scattered at least 3 nautical miles from shore, which means you cannot scatter ashes on California beaches. If your loved one had a favorite beach, consider hosting a memorial there before chartering a vessel to spread their ashes at sea (more information: Burial at Sea – U.S. EPA).
Also, California law requires that scattered human remains not be distinguishable to the public and not in a container. If there are particles in the ash that can be recognized as bone, etc., they must be collected and removed from the park by the person(s) scattering of ashes. In addition, Health and Safety Code Section 7117(c) expressly forbids the scattering of cremated human remains from a bridge or pier, in a lake or stream, or within 500 yards seaward of the ocean shoreline.

It is not acceptable to leave any permanent marker at the site where the ashes were scattered.

What does it cost to scatter ashes in California state parks?
There is a fee for the permit to scatter ashes within a California state park. The permit fee is determined by the State Parks district.

How can I apply for the permit?
An application to scatter human remains is available by contacting the district office for the state park where the scattering will take place (example).