4 Places to Scatter a Loved One’s Ashes after Cremation

Receiving a loved one’s ashes from cremation services in Portland, ME, is the penultimate act in saying the final goodbye. Many people choose different ways for the final memorial, but often, people choose to scatter the ashes in meaningful places. 

If you are looking to scatter a loved one’s ashes in Portland, here are a few places to consider and the rules that go with them. 

Private Property 

Let’s start with the most accessible one. There’s no law against scattering the ashes of your loved one in your yard or any other property you or the deceased owns. 

In fact, it could very well be the best option, especially if they treasured being there. You also don’t have to receive permission to erect small plaques or memorial benches to go with the scattering area. 

Unless it is someone else’s private property. In that case, you should seek permission from the landowner before doing anything. 

National and Local Parks 

Arcadia and the 30+ state parks in Maine are excellent places to scatter a loved one’s ashes. It is especially fitting if they enjoyed the outdoors and spending time in nature. 

Portland itself has 67 parks, any of which could be a fitting final resting place for your beloved if you want somewhere closer to home. 

Whichever park you choose, contact the ranger or park management’s office to determine if you can scatter ashes there. Many of them allow it, but specific rules and regulations might still exist. 

Also, you should plan ahead. Your preferred park might require permits, which could take a while to obtain. 

Public Land 

Scattering on public land can be a meaningful way to ensure your beloved is always part of the city, even in death. Since there are no state laws restricting the scattering of ashes on public land, there are many locations to choose from. 

You only need to check with the municipal and borough regulations and zoning rules before scattering the ashes. 

However, this is discretionary. Many people proceed without checking, and this is okay as long as good judgment is applied. 

Water Burial 

Casco Bay is one of the excellent places to scatter a loved one’s ashes after cremation, especially if you want a water burial. 

Besides the spiritual symbolism, releasing a loved one’s ashes over a body of water is a wonderful experience, and there are environmental benefits. 

If you choose to have a water burial (scattering-at-sea), the Clean Water Act requires you to be at least three nautical miles from land. Luckily, you can charter a ferry, water taxi, sail, or any other preferred mode of water transportation in Casco Bay for this purpose. 

Other places where you can scatter ashes on water include Stroudwater and Fore rivers and Capisic Pond. 

Those are four types of places you can scatter ashes in Portland, ME. A rewarding scattering ceremony, however, starts with a successful cremation process. 

If you need quality and affordable cremation services in Portland, ME, including organizing a scattering event, kindly reach out to us. We specialize in helping families craft a memorable farewell to their loved ones. Call us now or visit our location to get started.