Can you scatter the ashes of a loved one anywhere in Georgia? Here’s what the law allows

Chelsea Madden
·2 min read

If you have recently lost a loved one or pet, having them cremated and scattering their ashes can be a meaningful way to say goodbye — especially if you have a special place in mind to scatter those ashes.

Maybe your loved one enjoyed the beautiful beaches of Georgia or perhaps your pet had a favorite trail or park.

There are so many beautiful places to scatter ashes in the Peach State, but is it legal to do so?

Here’s where you can and can’t legally scatter ashes in Georgia.

Public places

According to The Living Urn blog, Georgia and most other states don’t have strict rules or laws in place about scattering ashes of loved ones. So, public places like parks, trails and other public spots are legitimate options to scatter ashes.

However, it is urged to check with officials before doing so.

“It’s always recommended to check if any local city or county regulations exist (and get permission when needed) before scattering cremated ashes on public land in Georgia,” according to The Living Urn.

At sea

Georgia has more than 100 miles of scenic shoreline, but can you scatter ashes anywhere along the sea?

If you choose this option, there are some Georgia laws to follow:

According to state laws, you may scatter ashes by boat or at sea, but you have to be at least three miles out from the shoreline.

That’s not the only law pertaining to this option. If you want to scatter ashes of a cremated loved one, you must do it within 50 days of the cremation and file with the local health department.

By air

According to Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel & Crematory in Fort Valley, Georgia, there are no state laws about scattering ashes by air, such as in an airplane, drone, helicopter or even from a really tall building.

“Since cremation ashes are harmless, you only have to scatter them from a height that won’t harm people or damage property,” according to the Crematory.

Scattering gardens

Scattering gardens are also an option in Georgia.

“A scattering garden is a beautifully decorated area with the express purpose of having ashes scattered upon it, providing a natural, eternal fertilizer for the flowers and plants, and serving as a cemetery of sorts for those who wish to be cremated but for whom loved ones still want a tranquil and solemn setting to visit,” as stated on the Memorial Planning blog.

A few scattering gardens in Georgia are:

  • Forest Hills Memorial Gardens in Forest Park

  • Serenity Memorial Gardens in Lizella

  • Middle Georgia Memorial Gardens in Macon

  • Sunrise Gardens of Memories in Douglasville

Private property

Lastly, you are allowed to scatter ashes on your own private property or on someone else’s private property with their permission.

Where have you scattered the ashes of a loved one? Let me know at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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